Beach Access Permits will NOT be available this year in Topsail Beach due to a Beach Renourishment project set to begin this Fall. Beach Access Permits are normally sold between October 1st and January 15th for vehicles and between October 1st and March 30th for horses each year. However, due to the impending project, Commissioners determined that in the best interest of the project, horses and vehicles will not be permitted on the beach this year.
The Town fully expects to make Beach Access Permits available next year during the 2024-2025 season.
Beach driving permits are only issued to four wheel drive vehicles and are for fishing purposes only. Modified utility vehicles (“MUTV”) as described in N.C.G.S. 20-4.01 (27) regardless of whether the MUTV is registered or licensed in any state shall not be allowed on the beach strand. Pleasure riding on the beach is not allowed. Anyone caught driving on the beach without a permit will be ticketed and escorted off the beach.
Purchase a Permit:
New Driving Time Frame: October 1st through January 15th
When: Monday - Friday from the Topsail Beach Police Department 8:00am - 3:00pm; Saturday and Sunday at Fire Department. If nobody is physically at these locations, they are answering an emergency call, Please be patient and wait for their return.Where: Sold at the Topsail Beach Police Department (812 S Anderson Blvd); Fire Department (816 S Anderson Blvd)
The cost is as follows: SEASON PASS $100 for non-residents of the Town of Topsail Beach $25 for residents of the Town of Topsail Beach WEEKLY PASS $50
Documentation required to purchase a permit
Should you need additional information, please contact the Topsail Beach Police Department at
While some exposure to sunlight can be enjoyable, too much can be dangerous. Overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can result in a painful sunburn. It can also lead to more serious health problems, including skin cancer, premature aging of the skin, cataracts and other eye damage, and immune system suppression. Children are particularly at risk. This Web page explains simple steps to protect you and your children from overexposure to UV radiation.
Most people are not aware that skin cancer, while largely preventable, is the most common form of cancer in the United States. More than 3.5 million new cases of skin cancer are diagnosed annually. By following some simple steps, you can still enjoy your time in the sun and protect yourself from overexposure. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends these action steps to help you and your family be “SunWise.”
Early detection of melanoma can save your life.
A new or changing mole should be evaluated by a dermatologist.
Do NOT Burn.
Sunburns significantly increase one's lifetime risk of developing skin cancer, especially for children.
Avoid Sun Tanning and Tanning Beds.
UV radiation from tanning beds and the sun causes skin cancer and wrinkling.
Generously Apply Sunscreen.
Generously apply about one ounce of sunscreen to cover all exposed skin 15 minutes before going outside. Sunscreen should have a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 30 and provide broad-spectrum protection from both ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. Reapply every two hours, even on cloudy days, and after swimming or sweating.
Wear Protective Clothing
Such as a long-sleeved shirt, pants, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses, when possible.
Seek Shade
When possible, and remember that the sun’s UV rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Use Extra Caution Near Water, Snow and Sand.
Water, snow and sand reflect the damaging rays of the sun, which can increase your chance of sunburn.
Get Vitamin D Safely
Through a diet that includes vitamin supplements and foods fortified with Vitamin D. Don't seek the sun.
Check the UV Index.
The UV Index provides important information to help you plan your outdoor activities in ways that prevent sun overexposure. The UV Index forecast is issued daily by the National Weather Service and EPA.
The Town of Topsail Beach has three beach wheelchairs that can be used on the beach by persons who have difficulty walking in sand. They are available free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis by calling the Topsail Beach Police Department at 910-328-4851. The chairs may be used only within the town limits of Topsail Beach.
Please contact the TBPD for additional information and rules for use of the chairs.
Conditions and Procedures for Use