A law signed by Gov. Phil Murphy in 2019 aimed to settle a long-standing debate: If you’re simply crossing the beach to access the ocean—whether for surfing or fishing—you shouldn’t need a beach tag.
But not every town got the memo. Or, if they did, they didn’t interpret it correctly.
Now, Assemblywoman Marjorie Donlon is taking another step to eliminate any lingering confusion. Last September, she introduced A-4816, a bill designed to reinforce that municipalities cannot require a beach badge if you’re there strictly to surf or fish. However, just before Valentine’s Day, the bill was amended, broadening the language from “surfing or fishing” to “using the ocean for a recreational activity.”
For anyone who remembers the heated confrontation in Belmar, where a surfer was tackled by police over a beach badge, this issue is far from trivial. Beach badge policies have long been a source of frustration for ocean lovers in New Jersey, with rising costs and ever-changing regulations.
But here’s the key takeaway: There’s a difference between the sand and the surf when it comes to beach badges. With Memorial Day now just a few months away, it’s the perfect time for a refresher on what’s required—and what isn’t—before summer crowds return.
