2024
National Park Service
Interior Region 2
South Atlantic-Gulf
Cumberland IslandNational Seashore
Superintendent’s Compendium
CODE OF FEDERAL REGULATIONS
TITLE 36, CHAPTER 1
Compendium of Designations, Closures, Request Requirements and Other Restrictions imposed under the discretionary authority of the Superintendent
In accordance with applicable law and policy, and pursuant to the delegated authorities provided in Title 36, Code of Federal Regulations, Chapter 1 (“36CFR”), the following compendium actions apply to all lands and waters administered by the National Park Service (NPS) within the boundaries of Cumberland Island National Seashore. This document is the written compilation of designations, closures, permit requirements and other restrictions imposed under the discretionary authority of the Superintendent, as required by 36 CFR 1.7(b). Violating any provision in this Compendium may result in criminal penalties under 36 CFR 1.3.The compendium actions in this document apply in addition to all other laws and apply to lands and waters administered by the NPS within the boundaries of Cumberland Island National Seashore. These include:
- Regulations in 36 CFR and other CFR titles such as Title 43, which contains regulations that apply on public lands administered by the Department of the Interior. The current version of the CPR can be found at www.ecfr.gov. Click on “Title 36” and then “Chapter 1” to access 36 CFR.
- Statutes codified in the U.S. Code, in particular provisions in Titles 16 and 54.
This Compendium is organized by the sections in 36 CFR that give the Superintendent discretionary authority to take compendium action. Written determinations that explain why each compendium action is necessary, appear in this document in italicized print.
Please contact the Superintendent’s Office at 912-882-4336 x 228 if you have any questions or comments about the Superintendent’s Compendium.
Approved by Melissa Trenchik, Superintendent
Reviewed Deputy Superintendent
Reviewed by Michael Seibert, Chief of Resources
Reviewed Chief of Facilities
Reviewed by Sarah Koenen , Chief of Interpretation (Acting)
Reviewed by Jared Brewer, Chief Ranger
Reviewed by Chad Gray, Chief of Administration
The following items have been modified, added or deleted since the last approval (2022).Changes listed bring this compendium up to date with the information currently available to the visiting public in our park brochures and on our park website.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
CFR TITLE PAGE
SECTION
Section 1.5 Closures and Public Use Limits...........................................................6
Section 1.6 Permits ....……………………………………………………………........11
Section 2.1 Preservation of Natural, Cultural & Archaeological Resources ....…..12
Section 2.2 Wildlife Protection..…………………………………………………….....13
Section 2.3 Fishing ...……………………………………………………...…………...13
Section 2.10 Camping and Food Storage………....………………………...…..…..14
Section 2.13 Fires …………………………………....…...…………………...……....15
Section 2.14 Sanitation and Refuse......…………………..………………………….16
Section 2.15 Pets.………………...………………………..…………...………..........17
Section 2.16 Horses and Pack Animals…………………..……………………….....17
Section 2.21 Smoking……………………………………..……………………….......17
Section 2.22 Property………………………………………...........………….............18
Section 2.35 Recreation Fees ………………………….....…………………............18
Section 2.31 Trespassing, Tampering & Vandalism …..........................................19
Section 2.51 Demonstrations ........……………………….…………………….........19
Section 2.52 Sale and Distribution of Printed Material .….……….........................19
Section 2.62 Memorialization......…………………………….……………….……....19
Section 3.2(b) Boating & Water Use Activities: State Law Applicable ...…….........20
Section 4.21 Speed Limits ...………………………………….…….………………....21
Section 4.30 Bicycles.......…………….……………………….…………..…………...21
.
Section 1.5
CLOSURES AND PUBLIC USE LIMITS
The following operating hours are established for visitor and administrative facilities operated by the National Park Service:
- Cumberland Island facilities are open daily during the below hours/days, except when the park is closed.
- Cumberland Island National Seashore Visitor Center is open from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM daily, except on December 25th.
- The Bachlott House in St. Marys is open for administrative functions, Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, except Federal holidays. The Bachlott House may close on a temporary basis due to lack of staff.
- The Cumberland Island Museum in St. Marys is open 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM daily, it may close on a temporary basis due to lack of staff.
This establishes the operating hours of park facilities for the visiting public.
The Superintendent may close all or portions of the park during periods of inclement weather, based on forecasts of inclement weather, or due to other hazardous conditions. Closures will be identified by posting signs, maps, media notifications, and/or barriers and gates as appropriate.
Roads and other facilities may be closed during periods of inclement weather, or periods of hazardous conditions in order to ensure visiting public’s safety as well as the park employees’ safety.
Any bottle, can, or receptacle containing food or beverage that has been opened, or the contents partially removed are not permitted in, The Ice House Museum, Plum Orchard Mansion, Mainland Visitor Center, and Museum as well as any other exhibit areas.
Protecting historic furnishings, park building and facilities from damage resulting from unintentional spills of food or beverage is necessary to maintain a collection’s integrity, and to properly care for museum objects.
Historic structures signed with Closures/Do Not Enter, are closed to entry to the visiting public. These structures include, but are not limited to:
- Dungeness Ruins
- Plum Orchard Structures
- Beach Creek Dock/House
- Damaged Dock Areas
These areas are focal points for visitation by island visitors. Such closures mitigate the park visitors’ exposure to potential hazards and supports the preservation of cultural and historical structures.
(a)(2) The following specific activities are limited in time or scope as described:
Operating motor vehicles by the general public within park boundaries is prohibited. However, concessioners, property owners or retained right owners, with specific rights in their retained rights agreement or other previously recognized legal document, may operate a motor vehicle on the designated road system for which they have the specific right to operate vehicles.
Road/Trail Closures
Lower Garden Road (below Dungeness Ruins, adjacent to Beach Creek)-Authorized traffic only-Closed to all other motorized traffic.Sea Camp Trail (access road to Sea Camp Campground)-Authorized traffic only-Closed to all other vehicular traffic.
Davisville Road-South-Authorized traffic only-Closed to all other entry.Davisville Road-North-Authorized traffic only-Closed to all other entry.
Table Point Road-Authorized traffic only-Closed to all other motorized traffic.
South Cut Trail-Authorized traffic only-Closed to all other motorized traffic.
Parking/Driving off established roadways is prohibited outside of NPS administrative use. This includes lawns, fields, historic landscapes, or any other location, not specifically meant for driving.
These closures are to protect the natural character, scenic and wilderness values, cultural and natural resources, public safety and prevent intensive visitor use of the island.
Beach Driving
Driving motorized vehicles on the beach is prohibited, except as allowed under the Georgia Shore Protection Act. Driving on the beach without a Georgia beach driving permit is prohibited. Beach driving during the period May 1 to October 31 shall be restricted to daylight hours (1/2 hour before sunrise to 1/2 hour after sunset), except that authorizations allowing beach driving at night during such time period only for the purposes of scientific research, predator control, educational activities, or law enforcement may be issued to persons engaged in such activities. The speed limit is 25 mph from August 1 through March 31, and 20 mph from April 1 through July 31.
State law prohibits beach driving but allows individuals with property rights, as well as management agencies to obtain permits, O.C.G.A., Title 12, Rules 391-2-3. Violation of these provisions may be prosecuted in the Federal court system by assimilating state law.
Use of E-Bikes-Reference 36 CFR 1.4 and 4.30(i)
Definition of E-Bikes-The term “e-bike” means a two- or three-wheeled cycle with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts (1 h.p.).
E-Bikes are allowed in Cumberland Island National Seashore where traditional bicycles are allowed. E-Bikes are prohibited where traditional bicycles are prohibited. Except where use of motor vehicles by the public is allowed, using the electric motor to move an e-bike without pedaling is prohibited.
A person operating an e-bike is subject to the following sections of 36 CFR part 4 that apply to the use of traditional bicycles: sections 4.12, 4.13, 4.20, 4.21, 4.22, 4.23, and 4.30(h)(2)-(5).
Except as specified in this Compendium, the use of an E-Bike within Cumberland Island National Seashore is governed by State law, which is adopted and made a part of this Compendium. Any violation of State law adopted by this paragraph is prohibited.
Propane Cylinders aboard the Cumberland Island Ferry
Propane cylinders over 1 gallon are not allowed to be brought onto or transported aboard the Cumberland Island Ferry. Only individual camping sized 1 gallon or less propane cylinders may be brought aboard.
Dock Use and Hours Power driven vessels are not authorized to beach their boat within 100 yards of any dock structure. Human powered vessels (canoes and kayaks) may be beached near a dock structure as long as it does not block egress or ingress, docking, or National Park Service functions.
This regulation does not apply to registered hunters of an NPS managed hunt beaching their vessel near the Plum Orchard Dock/Hunt Camp.
Dungeness dock is available for private docking on the north extension. The south extension is closed to the public. Docking is permitted only between the hours of sunrise and sunset and is limited to vessels under 25 feet. However, those retained-rights property holders who have the established right to use the Dungeness (or Main Dock), may utilize the dock consistent with their property rights, but are prohibited from docking in such a way that interferes with ferry docking.
Sea Camp dock is available for private docking on the north extension. The south extension is closed to the public. Docking is permitted only between the hours of sunrise and sunset and is limited to vessels under 25 feet. However, individuals who have the right to use the Sea Camp dock included in their retained rights agreement, or other previously recognized legal document, may dock at Sea Camp on either the north or south end, but are prohibited from docking in such a way that interferes with ferry docking.
Plum Orchard dock is available for private docking. Docking is permitted only between the hours of sunrise and sunset. The dock will be closed during the six (6) annual hunts announced annually, and during the annual Christmas at Plum event in the month of December. Individuals who have the right to use the Plum Orchard dock included in their retained rights agreement, or other previously recognized legal document, may dock at Plum Orchard, but are prohibited from docking in such a way that interferes with ferry docking.
Old House Creek dock is closed to all public boats and personal watercraft. However, individuals who have the right to use the Old House Creek dock included in their retained rights agreement or other previously recognized legal document, or written permission from the Superintendent, may dock at Old House Creek.National Park Service (NPS) docks in St. Marys, GA are closed to all public boats and personal watercraft.
These public use restrictions have been established to provide for visitor safety, and to provide reasonable access to park visitors and retained rights holders. Vessel length restrictions are placed on the Dungeness and Sea Camp docks due to the structure of the floating docks and to provide space for as many public boats as possible. The Plum Orchard dock restriction provides space for the concessioner ferry during the Plum Orchard Tour, hunts and charters.
Buildings and Structures not explicitly open to the public are closed to all public access and use.
This restriction is implemented to provide for visitor safety and is deemed necessary to avoid risk to public safety or damage to the natural, cultural, scenic, or aesthetic resources of the park.Certain portions of the park will be closed to the visiting public during managed deer and or feral hog hunts. Trails and wilderness camping areas within the hunt boundary will be closed to the visiting public. Registered hunters will be permitted to camp at the Plum Orchard Hunt Camp and Brickhill Bluff camping areas. Closure dates will be made available at all Cumberland Island National Seashore visitor facilities. The dates and locations of closures will be available from the Superintendent by March 1st of each year for the following 12-month period.
Identified closures are established in order to avoid conflict among visitor use activities, as well as to maintain visitor and public safety.Area closures during feral hog management activities will involve the posting of signs and or blocking by NPS vehicle(s). Closures will last several hours and occur during early morning, late afternoon or evening, and during nighttime hours. At times, a section of the Main Road may be closed briefly during the anticipated discharge of a firearm by NPS personnel, but typically closures will be limited to roads and trails other than the Main Road.
Enacting closures during feral hog management activities, specifically when activities call for the use of a firearm, increases the public's safety as well as the safety of NPS personnel. Such closures warn of such activities and seek to create a safety zone during live fire operations. The National Park Service may post certain bird nesting areas or turtle nesting sites as closed; entry into these areas, as marked by signs, fences or another device, is prohibited for any unauthorized vehicle, person, or pet.
A number of federally protected species may occur in the seashore. This visitor use restriction is established to protect the habitats and species listed as threatened or endangered.
Unmanned AircraftLaunching, landing, or operating an unmanned aircraft from or on lands and waters administered by the National Park Service within the boundaries of Cumberland Island National Seashore is prohibited except as supported in writing by the Superintendent, and approved in writing by the Associate Director for Visitor and Resource Protection (ADVRP). The toy class remote controlled aircraft can be used within the curtilage of retained rights properties.
The term "unmanned aircraft" means a device that is used or intended to be used for flight in the air without the possibility of direct human intervention from within or on the device, and the associated operational elements and components that are required for the pilot or system operator in command to operate or control the device (such as cameras, sensors, communication links). This term includes all types of devices that meet this definition (e.g., model airplanes, quadcopters, and drones) that are used for any purpose, including for recreation or commerce. Flying UA within Cumberland Island National Seashore may adversely impact Threatened and Endangered Species and other federal or stale protected species, wildlife, ecological communities, archeological and cultural resources and wilderness characteristics, wildlife, archeological and cultural resources and wilderness characteristics.The compendium closures required to implement this interim policy are necessary to maintain public health and safely in units of the National Park System and to protect park resources and values until the NPS can determine whether specific uses of unmanned aircraft on lands and waters administered by the NPS are appropriate and will not cause unacceptable impacts on park resources and values. This closure by the Superintendent implements Section 1.5 of NPS Management Policies 2006, which provides that a new form of park use may he allowed within a park only after a determination has been made in the professional judgment of the Superintendent that it will not result in unacceptable impacts on park resources and values. When proposed park uses and the protection of park resources and values come into conflict, the protection of recourse and values must be predominant.
Hang gliding, parasailing, paragliding and ultra-lights are prohibited within Cumberland Island National Seashore.
Title 36 CFR 217 (d) allows the NPS to adopt Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations. The FAA defines aircraft as a device that is used or intended to be used for flight in the air (Title 14 CFR l. 13). FAA Advisory Circular (AC-91-36C Visual Flight Rules (VFR: Flight Near Noise Sensitive Areas) states that ''All aircraft are requested to maintain a minimum altitude of 2,000 feet above the surface of lands and waters administered by the NPS and other federal agencies. Pilots are warned that it is unlawful at any altitude to use an aircraft to harass any wildlife (16 USC 742j l). Harass is defined to mean disturb, worry, molest, rally, concentrate, harry, chase, drive, herd or torment.Objects of this size, configuration, and movement are known to frighten and disturb birds causing disruption of normal feeding, reproduction and nesting behaviors. Several species, including protected shore nesting species like the least tern, American oyster catcher and piping plover, are vulnerable to this type of disturbance at Cumberland Island National Seashore. Use of these devices is new, and their effects remain unknown. They may possess qualities adversely affecting park resources that may only be revealed in the future to the detriment of park resources if the use is allowed. Hang gliding, parasailing, paragliding and ultralights are inherently dangerous to participants and other visitors.
CartsCarts are not permitted north of the Sea Camp area.
Carts are permitted for transporting belongings to Sea Camp Campground and for travel around the Dungeness and Sea Camp areas, including the adjacent beach. Carts are not permitted north of the Sea Camp area. For carts that are rented through park concessions, please see their website for specific rules regarding rented carts. Professionally manufactured bicycle trailers are permitted on roadways North of Sea Camp when pulled behind a bicycle; however, nothing wheeled is allowed in the Wilderness area. No makeshift sleds, or other pull behind devices are allowed north of the Sea Camp area. (Also noted in Section 4.30 Vehicles and Safety)“Sleds” are defined as any non-wheeled device, either pushed or pulled, used for conveying goods or passengers.“Carts” are defined as any wheeled device for transporting cargo (e.g. beach cart, wagon, dolly, wheeled cooler, wheelbarrow, and hand-truck) whether commercially produced or homemade.“Bicycle trailers” are defined as a motor-less wheeled frame with a hitch system for transporting cargo by bicycle.
Fixed Lines/HammocksThe use of fixed lines (any line made from any material which is stretched between two points) is prohibited except for tie downs used in conjunction with tarps or tents affixed to ground stakes. This includes but is not limited to dog runs, hammocks or slack lines and prohibits attachment to vegetation, natural features, or government property. Hammocks may be used with portable hammock stands only.
Dungeness Ruins Approved Parking Locations
All vehicle parking at Dungeness Ruins must be in the approved parking locations. Vehicles may be temporarily parked for tours, etc., at the following locations:
- Along Grand Avenue, outside of the main gate entrance to Dungeness Ruins (North of gate, along Grand Avenue)
- All parking must occur in a way that does not block through traffic.
- Along the roadway on The Grange Dock Rd.
- All parking must occur in a way that does not block through traffic.
Maps are attached to this document showing the approved parking locations. The approved parking locations does not apply to Government Owned Vehicles during the course of official business.
The parking plan at Dungeness Ruins is to protect the viewshed, visitor experience, as well as the cultural landscape of the Dungeness Historic District.
Section 1.6
PERMITS
Pursuant to the provisions of 36 CFR l .6(t) the following is a compilation of the activities for which a permit is required.
Research/Specimen Collection, Section 2.5(a)
Campground Permit, Section 2.10(a)
Backcountry Camping Permit, Section 2.10(a)
Fee Waiver, Section 71.13(d)
Pet Permit (park residents), Section 2.15(e)
Special Event Permit, Section 2.50(a)
Memorialization (scattering of human ashes), Section 2.62(b)
Business Operations Permit, Section 5.3
Filming, Recording and or Advertising Production and Photography permit, Section 5.5
Please Note: Some activities under the following sections may require a permit:
Demonstrations, Section 2.51(b)
Sale and Distribution of Printed Matter, Section 2.52(b)
Permits will be specific in nature to the activity being permitted. In those cases where permit use is frequent a specific permit form has been designed, i.e. campground fee permit, photography/filming permit. In most other cases a special use permit or letter of authorization will be prepared laying out the specific conditions under which the permitted activity is authorized. In all cases a permit or letter of authorization must be in the permittee’s possession at all times and exhibited to any authorized person upon request.
Recreational Fee Permits for overnight stays in developed area campgrounds and wilderness campsites are obtained through the National Recreation Reservation System (www.Recreation.gov) and are to be in the possession of the camper during the time of their stay.
These permits are required under 36 CFR and are necessary to prevent incompatible and/or detrimental uses of the Seashore. The requirement for a permit and criteria for approval or disapproval of a permit are based on legal requirements and NPS policy Inquiries regarding permits should be made in writing or by calling (912)882-4336.
PART 2 – RESOURCE PROTECTION, PUBLIC USE AND RECREATION
Section 2.1
PRESERVATION OF NATURAL, CULTURAL AND ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESOURCES
(a)(1)(ii) Possessing, destroying, injuring, defacing, removing, digging, or disturbing from its natural state:
- Plants or the parts or products thereof.
- Beaching/Landing/Anchoring/Stopping vessels in tidal marsh grass is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to the lower gardens area below Dungeness Ruins on Beach Creek.
(a)(4) Wood gathering- Collection of wood is prohibited; EXCEPT: wood may be gathered when ALL the following conditions apply:
- The wood is on the ground,
- Collection is by non-mechanical means only (rented carts are not allowed to be used for wood gathering),
- The wood is not on private or retained rights land, AND
- It is intended for use in campfires at the Sea Camp and Stafford developed campgrounds, or at the Hunt Camp campground during an NPS sanctioned activity (such as a managed hunt or volunteer work group)
The collection and use of limited amounts of wood by manual means for use in designated areas enhances the visitor experience. As this collection occurs around developed areas, the park benefits from the removal of fuels from areas typically protected from wildfire. However, the disturbance of any natural resource must be carefully measured. The limits placed on this activity (hand collection only and for use only in designated park areas), protects the vast majority of dead and down trees as habitat. Individuals who have the right to gather firewood included in their retained rights agreement, or other previously recognized legal document, or permission from the Superintendent, may gather dead and down wood for residential use within the above restrictions. Residents may utilize a chainsaw, outside of designated wilderness (nothing mechanical may be used in designated wilderness), to harvest wood. The rights to collect down and dead firewood for residents does not confer the ability to use vehicles of any kind, in locations they do not have a legal right to drive on.
(Note: removing limbs from any standing tree, whether dead or alive, remains prohibited throughout the Seashore.)
(b) – Designated Trails – Pedestrian travel is restricted to established roads and trails, including where those roads or trails cross private or retained rights land. Traveling off trail in dune areas is prohibited. Dunes are defined as non-vegetated or sparsely vegetated sandy areas between the forest on the east side of the island and the open sand of the ocean beach. Established trails are those identified as trails and/or roads on the “Official Map and Guide” for Cumberland Island National Seashore, on the
Wilderness Trail map, and The Georgia Conservancy’s Cumberland Island National Seashore Trail Map.
This restriction 1) protects the rights of residents, in particular where they have freely given permission to cross private/retained rights land for the purpose of public access to trails; and 2) protects the vegetation of the fragile dune ecosystem.
(c)(l)- Collection of natural products- No animal or plant parts may be collected in the national seashore except as follows:
- Collecting unoccupied seashells and fossilized sharks’ teeth is permitted, but is limited to noncommercial purposes, collected only from beach and road locations, and two gallons of uninhabited seashells per person per day.
- Acorns, hickory and other nuts may be collected from the ground, and grapes, and other fruit may be picked from plants. Such products may be gathered only for personal consumption, and a maximum quantity of 1 gallon in total volume per person per day of all such products may be collected. No other animal or plant may be collected without a permit. Commercial collection is prohibited.
Limited quantities of seashells and seashell fragments not inhabited by living creatures should not adversely affect the environment. Commercial collecting is prohibited to ensure that seashells are available to recreational collectors. Plant product collection in limited quantities will have no significant impact on the environment, due in part to the low visitation.
Section 2.2 WILDLIFE PROTECTION
Regulations in this section apply regardless of land ownership. State licensure laws apply.
(a)(2) Feeding wildlife is prohibited, to include using bait during managed hunts.
(b) Hunting is a mandated recreational activity for Cumberland Island National Seashore. Hunting will be carried out through managed deer and hog hunts. Such activities will be by permit only. The following are prohibited: violation of the terms of the permit, hunting without a permit, hunting outside of the hunt boundaries, times or conditions, or in violation of state law. Tree stands, climbing stands, or other hunting devices
MUST be removed from the park at the end of each individual hunt. They may not be left up for the entire hunt season.
Imposing these restrictions on hunting reduces the possibility of conflicts between hunters and park visitors. Operating under a permit system allows enforcement of restrictions and gathering of valuable resource data.
(d) Transporting wildlife. Lawfully taken wildlife may be transported during daylight hours and one hour after sunset along public roads and/or from access points along the seashore, subject to all driving regulations, including existing driving rights.
This designation allows hunters to transport legally taken wildlife in the seashore while enabling the National Park Service to manage activity within its jurisdiction.
(e) Artificial Light. From May 1st through October 31st, the use of artificial lights outfitted with red filters may be used; and authorized personnel may use artificial lights with permission from the Superintendent, under the conditions established in written management of the resource.
The beaches of Cumberland Island are habitat for nesting adult sea turtles and hatchlings. Prohibiting the use of artificial lights on the beach during this time frame protects the turtles and hatchlings from disturbance, disorientation, and nest failure. Red-filtered artificial lights are acceptable since it is generally agreed to have no effect on the turtles.
Section 2.3
FISHING
Regulations in this section apply regardless of land ownership. State licensure laws apply.
(d)(8) Fishing is authorized within the boundaries of Cumberland Island National Seashore, including from Sea Camp, Plum Orchard and Dungeness Docks, in a manner which does not interfere with boat and pedestrian traffic. Interfering with boat operations by having lines, tackle, floats, bait buckets or other gear in the path of any docking boat is prohibited.
Fishing is an appropriate recreational activity of the seashore. This authorization enables the park to manage this recreational use in a high visitor use area in a safe manner.
Section 2.4
WEAPONS, TRAPS AND NETS
Regulations in this section apply regardless of land ownership.
WILDLIFE TRAPS- Trap devices are routinely used by NPS personnel to capture raccoons and feral hogs for the purposes of population management, invasive species control, protection of sea turtle and shorebird nesting, and visitor protection. Tampering with traps, bait delivery devices, monitoring cameras, or animals captured in traps by unauthorized persons is prohibited and punishable by law.
Trapping operations are an agency function consistent with the park’s mission. Interference with operations interrupts the ability to carry out the mission. Unauthorized activity may result in injury to persons by the trap device and/or animals captured within the device.
Section 2.10
CAMPING AND FOOD STORAGECamping is permitted only in designated campgrounds. Campgrounds are designated on a map located in the office of the park Superintendent, by appropriate signing, by brochures available to the public at ranger stations and the visitor center, on the park’s website, and on the www.Recreation.gov website.
Camping in any
historic structure or building is prohibited.
Historic structures are fragile and need protection from any activity that could adversely impact the structure or degrade the historic scene.
Overnight beaching of vessels within the National Seashore boundary is prohibited.
This regulation does not apply to registered hunters of a NPS managed hunt, near the Plum Orchard Dock or registered hunters or registered campers at the Brickhill Bluff Campsites.
Limited camping by special groups such as hunters and work groups may be authorized at the Plum Orchard Hunt Camp.
Reservations are required for any camping activity.
Permits are required for all camping on the island. The permit must be in the camper’s possession and must be exhibited upon the demand of an authorized person. Campers are required to obtain their permit via the online reservation system, www.recreation.gov prior to camping.
Capacity and use limits are necessary to protect resources, promote sustainability and provide an enjoyable visitor experience. Reservations and permits aid the park in distributing and monitoring use and in locating lost overdue persons.
Stay limits: No person or their equipment shall occupy a campground for more than (7) consecutive days.
Long periods of stay are inconsistent with the management of public campgrounds, which are intended to provide a short-term national park camping experience to all interested visitors.
Occupancy limits: Occupancy of an individual campground site at either Sea Camp or Stafford Beach Campgrounds is limited to (6) individuals.
Each Sea Camp group site’s maximum occupancy limit is 20 individuals.
Children two years of age and under do not count toward the maximum. The maximum occupancy limit in each of the wilderness sites, Brickhill Bluff, Yankee Paradise and Hickory Hill, is limited to 4 permits per site (6 persons per permit).
Tents must be pitched within established footprint of the respective site- not on trails, dunes, or on/against vegetation and must not contribute to the expansion of the site by its placement.
Each camping party may not reserve more than one site per night.
Individuals must be at least 17 years of age to be issued a camping permit.Obtaining a permit through fraudulent means, such as providing false information is prohibited.
Only kiln dried firewood can be brought to Cumberland Island. Visitors are also able to gather dead and downed firewood in the park. Kiln dried wood may also be purchased on the Cumberland Island Ferry.
This regulation protects the forest ecosystem by trying to prevent the spread of disease and pests.
(d) Conditions for food storage are established as follows; food, food products, and trash with food residue or remains must be stored in such a way as to prevent access by wildlife. Failure to secure such items is prohibited.
Food scents attract animals. Animals which gain access to human food sources tend to return to those sources and may cause property damage or injury. Subsequent behavior problems often necessitate the removal or destruction of an animal.
Section 2.13
FIRES
Regulations in this section apply regardless of land ownership. The lighting or maintaining of fires is generally prohibited, except as provided for in the following designated areas or receptacles, and under the conditions noted.
(a)(1) Open ground fires are limited to the fire rings at the Sea Camp, Stafford and Hunt Camp camping areas. Retained rights holders and private property owners may have ground fires, provided the fires are within state burning regulations; such fires are the responsibility of the land holder.
The use of open ground fires in the park is regulated to protect human life, structures and natural resources. During extreme weather conditions, open ground fires may be restricted to preclude the accidental ignition of wildfires.
On the beach, ground fires may be ignited and maintained seaward of the ocean dune below the high tide mark, but in no case less than 50 feet from a vegetated area. All ground fires are prohibited from 12:00 midnight to 6:00 AM., November 1 through April 30. No night beach fires are allowed from May 1 through October 31. No beach fires are permitted within 100 feet of any turtle nest closure or within posted bird or turtle nest protection areas. All fires must be no greater than 3 feet in diameter. Treated wood products and wood containing nails and other foreign material will not be used for fire construction. Disposal of glass, plastics and cans in fires is prohibited.
Restrictions on beach fires are necessary to protect park resources and retained rights properties from wildfires caused by building fires too close to highly flammable dune grass and/or fires not being extinguished properly. Beach fires are prohibited at night during sea turtle and shorebird nesting season to reduce disturbance and the potential for disorientation of hatchling sea turtles.
In the wilderness areas, cooking fires must be self-contained (i.e. liquid or gas fuel stoves) and leave no ashes or marks on the ground. Wood fires and charcoal fires are prohibited.
Open ground and charcoal fires in the wilderness areas produce ash/litter, raises unattended fire concerns, impacts resources from firewood gathering, and increases potential wildlife problems associated with food residue. The use of self-contained fuel stoves minimizes these issues.
(b) Fires must be extinguished according to the following conditions:
All fires should be completely extinguished with no burning material remaining. If a portable barbecue grill is used, all ashes/coals must be thoroughly extinguished and cooled and then removed from the park. Fires must be attended at all times, or otherwise be extinguished.
(c) During periods of high fire danger, the Superintendent may close all or a portion of a park area to the lighting or maintaining of a fire.
Such a closure is intended to protect persons, property, natural and cultural resources from human-caused wildfires.
Section 2.14
SANITATION AND REFUSE
(a)(1) No garbage of any kind (e.g., food scraps, food containers, discarded clothing or other personal items) may be burned in either the developed campsites or the wilderness campsites and areas.
(a)(2) Prohibited: Using government refuse receptacles or other refuse facilities for dumping household, commercial, or industrial refuse, brought as such from private or municipal property, except in accordance with conditions established by the superintendent.
Residents of Cumberland Island are permitted to use government receptacles within established standards set by the Superintendent’s Office. Permitted Refuse of any kind may only be deposited in government receptacles between 8AM and 4PM, Monday-Friday.
(a)(5)- Bathing, washing food, clothing or dishes is permitted at locations provided for that purpose at the Sea Camp and Stafford restroom complex, however, washing of shells and other sand-covered items is prohibited in sinks with drains; outdoor, open-air fixtures are supplied for that purpose.
(a)(7)- Cleaning and disposal of fish remains is permitted at the Sea Camp dock north platform. Remains are to be disposed into the water.
This authorization enables visitors to use sanitation facilitates in a manner which provides minimum impact to surrounding park resources and is sanitary.
(b) When available, rest rooms must be used. In non-developed areas more than a quarter of a mile from restroom facilities
, solid human body waste must be buried six (6) inches to eight (8) inches deep in organic soil in an area not frequented by the public, not visible from trails, campsites or other developed areas, and at least 150 feet from any water source. Liquid human waste must be disposed of a minimum of 150 feet from any water source.
These conditions allow visitors to use facilities in a sanitary manner while providing minimum impact to surrounding park resources. Solid human waste can spread disease and must be disposed of away from water sources to minimize the potential for contamination. Burying solid waste six to eight inches in soil minimizes the potential for washing of waste material into nearby water sources and eliminates the visual impact and odor of human waste.
Section 2.15
PETS
The provisions of this section apply to all pets on Federal land and waters, except dogs aiding vision or hearing-impaired person and dogs working with law enforcement. Pets may be kept by residents of park quarters consistent with the provisions of 36 CFR 2.15.
(a)(1) Dogs, cats and other pets are prohibited in all public buildings and camping areas in the park, and on the concession ferry.
For informational purposes: Guidance on service animals can be found in DO-42 and the Director’s memo dated 9/5/02 and titled “Use of Service Animals by Persons with Disabilities in the National Park System.” A service animal means any dog that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability, including a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or other mental disability. Miniature horses are also acceptable (use caution, as feral horses are present on the island). The crime deterrent effects of an animal’s presence and the provision of emotional support, well, being, comfort, or companionship do not constitute work or tasks for the purpose of this definition.
(e)
Pets kept by residents of the park will be maintained consistent with the provisions of this section and in accordance with provisions established in the Cumberland Island National Seashore’s Housing Management Plan.
The presence of pets in visitor use facilities or where their presence creates a sanitation issue, is inappropriate. This does not apply to guide dogs with visually impaired person, hearing dogs with hearing impaired persons and special needs dogs with persons with special needs.
Section 2.16
HORSES AND PACK ANIMALS
Horses and pack animals are allowed throughout the park, subject to all State and Federal laws concerning care, maintenance and disease control of livestock.
Although horses and pack animals are allowed throughout the park, it is discouraged due to the presence of feral horses on the island. Domestic horses may be affected by parasites of the feral population and the feral herds are territorial. Horses and pack animals are not allowed aboard the Cumberland Island Ferry.
Section 2.21
SMOKING
All smoking areas must be a reasonable distance from any building entrances, windows and ventilation systems so that persons entering or leaving the building or facility shall not be subjected to breathing tobacco smoke and so that tobacco smoke does not enter the building or facility through entrances, windows, ventilation systems or any other means. Similarly, ashtrays shall be removed to the same reasonable distances from building and facilities.
The following portions of the park, or all or portions of buildings, structures or facilities are closed to smoking as noted:
• All government owned structures.
• All historic structures.
• All government vehicles/Cumberland Island Ferry.
• The outside porch/deck areas at Sea Camp Visitor Center.
• The Dungeness Boat House.
• The outside breezeway at the Mainland Visitor Center.This designation is established to be consistent with government-wide guidelines, to protect park resources from damage due to smoke/fire, and to provide a healthy environment for employees and visitors.
This section shall apply to electronic cigarettes and other electronic nicotine delivery systems.
Section 2.22
PROPERTY
Regulations in this section apply regardless of land ownership.
(a)(1) Authorized vehicles and retained rights/private vehicles may be left unattended at Sea Camp, Plum Orchard, Hawkins Creek Dock, and the Captain’s House in accordance with retained rights agreements. However, only functioning vehicles may be left at those locations unless authorized by the Superintendent in writing. Approved locations for this are the Captain’s House parking lot, Sea Camp Visitor Center parking lot, and the parking area adjacent to Plum Orchard Dock only (no parking, driving, or leaving equipment on ANY area of the Plum Orchard lawn.)
No vehicles, equipment, trailers, or any other items may be parked on lawns, historic landscapes, or other sensitive areas.
This authorization enables the park to manage these visitor use areas in a safe manner that will protect property owners.
(b)(3) – Found, impounded, and abandoned property will be handled according to park policy.
Section 2.23
RECREATION FEES
Recreation fees have been established under the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act.
• Entrance Fee for occupying the island for up to 7 days is $15.00 per adult. (16 years and older), youths (15 years or younger) are free.
• Camping at Sea Camp is $22.00 a night per campsite.
• Camping at Stafford Beach Campground is $12.00 a night per campsite.
• Camping in the Wilderness Campgrounds (Hickory Hill, Yankee Paradise and Brickhill Bluff) is $9.00 per permit per night
.• Sea Camp Group are $40.00 per night.
• Cumberland Island National Seashore Annual Pass is $45.00 and is valid for one year from month of purchase.
• Holders of Golden Age passports, America the Beautiful Annual Passes, America The Beautiful Senior Passes and America the Beautiful Access Passes are subject to the rules pertaining to each type of Pass.
Renters of private island residents are required to pay entrance fees if they are leaving private property and utilizing NPS infrastructure (roads/trails/restrooms, etc.), recreational opportunities, beaches, etc. Entrance fees can be paid online and will be randomly verified by NPS staff.This is consistent with fee policy and regulations. The fees generated at the park, after any assessments by WASO, are retained for the benefit of the park.
Section 2.30
MISAPPROPRIATION OF PROPERTY AND SERVICES
Regulations in this section apply regardless of land ownership.
Section 2.31
TRESPASSING, TAMPERING AND VANDALISM
Regulations in this section apply regardless of land ownership.
(a)(5) Blocking the beach or any designated route by any mean (Such as vehicle, camping gear, fishing equipment, etc.) in such a manner that prevents safe, legal flow of vehicular traffic is prohibited.
This closure is established to provide access to beach areas and public use routes for all visitors, island residents and emergency vehicles.
Section 2.32
INTERFERING WITH AGENCY FUNCTIONS
Regulations in this section apply regardless of land ownership.
Section 2.34
DISORDERLY CONDUCTRegulations in this section apply regardless of land ownership.
Section 2.36
GAMBLING Regulations in this section apply regardless of land ownership.
Section 2.51
DEMONSTRATIONS
(c)(2) The areas listed below are designated for demonstrations and the sale or distribution of printed matter. These areas may be occupied by groups of 25 or fewer persons without a permit consistent with 36 CFR 2.51 and 2.52. However, there are exceptions and, even when not required, a permit is recommended in order to assure space will be available at a particular site.
- On the mainland, the grassy area between the mainland gazebo and St Marys pavilion.
- On the island, the grassy area south of Coleman Road near Dungeness Dock.
These areas have been designated pursuant to the provisions of the Federal Register with the intention of providing persons exercising their First Amendment rights with a very public area with the potential for “high visibility”.
Section 2.52(e)
SALE OR DISTRIBUTION OF PRINTED MATTER
See section 2.51 above regarding the list of designated areas.
Superintendents are authorized by 36 CFR 2.52 to issue special park use permits for the sale or distribution of “printed matter,” which the regulation defines as “message-bearing textual printed material such as books, pamphlets, magazines, and leaflets, provided that it is not solely commercial advertising.” Sales under this regulation whether authorized by a permit or small group exception, are limited to these defined terms.
To ensure that interpretation of the 36 CFR 2.52 accommodates the exercise of First Amendment rights, and that it is uniformly applied, in interpreting and applying the regulation, Superintendents will allow the free distribution of message-bearing items to the public other than printed matter, so long as the activity occurs within the areas designated as available for First Amendment activities, and otherwise complies with 36 CFR 2.52. Examples of message-bearing items that may be distributed for free include CDs, DVDs, and other readable electronic media. Such items must be distributed free of charge, and individuals may not ask or demand payment or request a donation in exchange for the item, which would violate 36 CFR 5.3.
Section 1.5, Section 2.55
COMMERCIAL FILMING
Under federal law, all commercial filming that occurs within a unit of the National Park System requires a permit. 428 units make up the National Park System, and includes National Parks, National Monuments, National Preserves, National Battlefield Parks, and more. A full list of parks in the National Park System is available online: National Park System (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov) If you believe that your filming or photography activity may require a permit, you should submit a completed application to the park where you want to film or photograph as far in advance of your planned date as possible.
What is commercial filming?
"Commercial filming" means the film, electronic, magnetic, digital, or other recording of a moving image by a person, business, or other entity for a market audience with the intent of generating income. Examples include, but are not limited to, feature film, videography, and documentaries. Commercial filming may include the advertisement of a product or service, or the use of actors, models, sets, or props.
Violating a term or condition of a permit issued under to this action may also result in the suspension and revocation of the permit by the Superintendent.
Section 2.62
MEMORIALIZATION
(b) The scattering of human ashes from cremation will be permitted pursuant to a permit issued by the park and pursuant to the following conditions:
- The chosen site must be no less than 200 feet from any buildings or historic buildings, structure or cemetery sites, including historic structures and cemeteries.
- The chosen site must be no less than 100 feet away from any other structures and developed areas, e.g. visitor centers, roads, trails, campgrounds and picnic areas.
- The chosen site must be no less than 150 feet from a stream or other watercourse.
- The ashes must be scattered and not deposited in any type of container. Cremains may not be buried even without a container.
- No marker or memorial of any sort may be placed or left at the site. The placement or planting of real or artificial flowers, memorial trees, brass markers, wooden crosses, etc. is prohibited.
PART 3- BOATING AND WATER USE ACTIVITIES
Section 3.2(b)
STATE LAW APPLICABLE
O.C.G.A. §52-7-18(f)
All vessels are required to maintain a no-wake (flat wake) speed (idle speed) within 200 feet of existing dock structures.
H.B. 201 authorizes DNR to establish where overnight anchoring may occur. On Dec. 30, 2019, DNR Commissioner Mark Williams
signed an Administrative Order (AO) establishing restrictions in some sensitive areas.
The AO restricts overnight anchoring within 1,000 feet of marked shellfish beds, whether commercial leases or public-picking areas.
The idea is to protect submerged oyster gear from anchor entanglement and to reduce the likelihood of waste being accidentally discharged near the oyster beds, again tying the two new laws together.
The AO also restricts overnight anchoring within 1,000 feet of any structure, such as public and private docks, wharfs, bridges, piers and pilings, except in areas near marinas.
For more information, including interactive and downloadable maps of prohibited anchoring areas, visit
www.CoastalGADNR.org/Liveaboards.
These restrictions are codified in state law and is adopted here for the purpose of consistency. It is necessary to provide safety for vessels docking and departing, as well as the protection of dock structures.
PART 4 – VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC SAFETY
Section 4.2State Law Applicable
(a) Unless specifically addressed by regulations in this chapter, traffic and the use of vehicles within a park area are governed by State law. State law that is now or may later be in effect is adopted and made a part of the regulations in the part.
(b) Violating a provision of State law is prohibited
Any vehicle that operates on the Federally owned and maintained public roads on Cumberland Island NS, must be properly registered and insured with the State of Georgia. If the State of Georgia is not your permanent residence, the vehicle must have the proper registration and insurance from your home state.
Section 4.21
SPEED LIMITS
(b) The following speed limits have been designated:
Main Road 25 mph
North Cut Road 25 mph
Beach 25 mph
Beach-August 1 – March 31 20 mph
Beach-April 1 – July 31 20 mph
Dungeness Historic District 15 mph
Plum Orchard Road 15 mph
The Following Intersections: 10 mph
- Dungeness (Coleman Rd. and Main Rd.)
- Sea Camp (Main Rd. and Sea Camp Beach Crossing)
- Greyfield Crossing (Main Rd. and Greyfield Beach Rd.)
- Stafford Mansion Crossing (Main Rd. and Stafford Rd.)
-
- Section 4.30
- VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC SAFETY
(h) Bicycles and other mechanized transport or devices (to include E-Bikes) are prohibited within the boundary of the designated wilderness. Bicycles and E-Bikes are permitted on the beach between the Dungeness Beach Crossing and the Sea Camp Beach Crossing (North of Dungeness and South of Sea Camp).
Reference 36 CFR 1.4 and 4.30(i)
Bicycles and E-Bikes are not allowed on designated trails.
Bicycles and E-Bikes are not allowed on the cultural landscape.
Individuals with specific rights to drive vehicles in the wilderness may operate bicycles in the same location on the designated road system in the wilderness for which they have the specific right to drive vehicles.
Carts are permitted for transporting belongings to Sea Camp Campground and for travel around the Dungeness and Sea Camp areas, including the adjacent beach. Carts are not permitted north of the Sea Camp area. For carts that are rented through park concessions, please see their website for specific rules regarding rented carts. “Carts” are defined as any wheeled device for transporting cargo (e.g. beach cart, wagon dolly, wheeled cooler, hand-truck, etc.) whether commercially produced or homemade.
Professionally manufactured bicycle trailers are permitted on roadways north of Sea Camp when pulled behind a bicycle, however, nothing wheeled is allowed in the Wilderness areas. No makeshift sleds, or other pull behind devices are allowed north of the Sea Camp area.
“Bicycle trailers” are defined as a motor-less wheeled frame with a professionally manufactured hitch system for transporting cargo by bicycle.
The Wilderness Act prohibits operation of mechanized equipment within designated wilderness. The enabling legislation for Cumberland Island Wilderness allows for preexisting rights. The right to operate bicycles and other mechanized equipment parallels the use of vehicles.
