National Park Service News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: DATE: February 1, 2012
CONTACT: Cyndy Holda, Public Affairs Specialist, 252-473-2111, ext.
148

Information Regarding Cape Hatteras National Seashore ORV Final Rule

The final special regulation (rule) for the management of off-road vehicle
(ORV) use at Cape Hatteras National Seashore (Seashore) was published in
the Federal Register on January 23, 2012 and becomes effective on
Wednesday, February 15, 2012. The rule designates ORV routes and
authorizes ORV use at the Seashore in a manner that will protect and
preserve the unique natural and cultural resources of this dynamic barrier
ecosystem while permitting the use of vehicles on Seashore beaches and
provide a variety of safe visitor experiences while minimizing conflicts
among various users. Under National Park Service (NPS) general regulations,
the operation of motor vehicles off of roads within areas of the National
Park System is prohibited unless authorized by special regulation.

To provide more information about the rule and its requirements, the NPS
has prepared a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) information sheet and a map
showing designated ORV routes as well as pedestrian areas where ORVs are
not authorized. The FAQ and map are now available on the Seashore’s
website located at: http://www.nps.gov/caha

When the rule becomes effective on February 15, 2012, an ORV permit will be
required to operate a vehicle on the designated ORV routes at the Seashore.
Permits can be obtained beginning on February 15 at any of the three NPS
ORV permit offices located at Coquina Beach, the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse
Visitor Center (Buxton), and the Ocracoke Visitor Center. These offices
will be open year-round, seven days a week, except Christmas Day, from 8:00
a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with expanded hours on weekends and holidays during the
summer season. The cost of an annual permit (valid for the calendar year)
is $120. A 7-day ORV permit (valid from the date issued) will cost $50.

In order to provide the public with ample time to obtain a permit, there
will be a transition period between February 15 and March 15 before the
rule is fully implemented and enforced. During the transition period, the
NPS will install new ORV route markers and information signs and begin
implementation of the species management measures that were identified in
the December 2010 Record of Decision for the Seashore’s Off-Road Vehicle
Management Plan / Final Environmental Impact Statement. Visitor contacts
during the transition will focus on informing the visiting public about the
ORV permit and other beach driving requirements under the special
regulation.

For more information, see the FAQ posted on-line at:
http://www.nps.gov/caha; or call 252-473-2111 ext. 148.

-NPS-