Escambia Co. tweaks ordinance for no tresspassing signs to protect turtles

Escambia Co. tweaks ordinance for no tresspassing signs to protect turtles

Escambia County released a sea turtle proteccion report about restrictions and guidance for the upcoming sea turtle nesting season that now include specific restrictions for no tresspassing signs.
Through the Leave No Trace ordinance, it is illegal to leave personal property on any portion of the sandy gulf beach daily from sunset until sunrise. Additionally, any lawful “No Trespassing” signs on private property must meet regulations outlined in the Florida Statues and Escambia Ordinances by Wednesday, May 15.
Unlike Pensacola Beach, Perdido Key has privately owned beach areas that end at the mean tide line or the “wet sand” area, which is public property. Landowners of gulf front property on Perdido Key may lawfully post no trespassing signs. However, they must meet the provisions outlined in the Escambia Code of Ordinances.

• No trespassing signs are required to be placed not more than 500 feet apart along, and at each corner of the boundaries of the land.
• Private landowners may install up to 3 single-post signs located at the base of the dune, mid- point of the beach, and at the southern corners of the property.
• Neighboring properties both intent to post their property, then a single-post with back-to- back signs should be utilized
  Violations of the Leave No Trace ordinances for Peredido Key and Pensacola Beach can be reported through the MyEscambia.com or by calling 850-595-1144.
  The “leave no trace” ordinance also reminds beachfront residents to turn out lights this spring and summer. May is the beginning of sea turtle nesting season in Florida, with thousands of endangered turtles laying their eggs on Gulf Coast and Atlantic beaches until the season ends October 31.
  Light pollution has a negative effect on sea turtles, causing hatchlings to become disoriented and head away from the Gulf of Mexico when they emerge from their nest. It is important not to disturb nesting females or hatchlings by using flashlights, flash photography or lanterns at night. Also close blinds and curtains in beachfront homes when interior lights are on at night.
  After a day at the beach, fill any holes in the sand and knock down sand sculptures to remove obstacles blocking sea turtles’ nesting activities.
   Remain at a distance from nesting sea turtles and properly dispose of trash and discarded fishing gear. Sea turtles can become entangled in old fishing nets and lines or ingest plastic bags and wrappers, mistaking them for jellyfish.
  Of course, remove personal belongings from the beach at the end of each day. Items such as Items such as umbrellas, tents, beach toys and chairs can not be left unattended overnight.