St. Johns beaches have new rules
Beach driving hours are among the changes that go into effect today.

ST. AUGUSTINE - Beachgoers should be prepared for changes that go into effect today that may affect their visits.

Implementation of the Habitat Conservation Plan, a 20-year agreement between St. Johns County and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, includes major changes that will limit beach driving hours, where people can park, allowable lighting from beachfront buildings and houses, and other conservation measures.

From today through Oct. 31, vehicle access to authorized beaches will begin each day at 8 a.m. and end at 8 p.m., instead of 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. Police will begin directing vehicles off the beaches as early at 6:30 p.m. There also will be increased enforcement of beach driving policies.

Among the other changes:

• Parking will be restricted to new designated areas. No activity will be allowed in an established Conservation Zone, which is 15 feet seaward from the toe of the dunes.
• A single driving lane will be established from Porpoise Point to St. Augustine Inlet and a 30-foot conservation zone will be established.
• Horseback riding in designated areas will be by permit only after completion of Habitat Conservation Plan training.
• Beach lighting will be monitored to assure that residents and businesses are in compliance with the county's code.
• Fireworks are prohibited.

  While the major purpose of the Habitat Conservation Plan is for the protection of nesting sea turtles and the Anastasia Island beach mice, Dave Williams, chief of beach operations for the county, said it is also for the safety of beachgoers.

  "With the increase of autos on our beaches, we are concerned about the safety of beach visitors in the water as well as on the beaches," Williams said.

  "We want everyone to enjoy their beach experiences in an orderly and safe manner," he added.

  While lifeguards in rescue vehicles patrol the beaches year round, lifeguard stands are staffed on weekends from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Daily coverage will begin Memorial Day weekend.