07/11/2025
FYI
JULY 11, 2025 • ORDINANCE CHANGE NOTICE
Full details at OakIslandNC.gov/HOLES
On July 8, 2025 the Town Council approved an update to Ordinance 14-142, which will now limit the depth and tools used to dig recreational holes on the public beach areas.
As of this change, holes dug on the beach strand:
• Cannot be deeper than 12”
• Can only be dug using toy shovels intended for use by children
• Must be attended at ALL times
• Must be completely filled in by 6:00 PM
Violation can now result in a $50 FINE, issued by the Beach Safety Unit or the Oak Island Police Department.
BACKGROUND:
Since the start of May 2025, the Oak Island Beach Safety Unit has responded to and filled in over 205 large, deep holes left unattended on the public beach areas.
Deep holes in the sand can be dangerous to beachgoers, wildlife, and Beach Safety crews responding to emergencies.
At well over 100 lbs. per cubic foot, the weight of sand from a collapsed hole can immediately crush children, small pets, and wildlife.
Often difficult to see when left unattended, and nearly impossible to see at night, these hazards regularly lead to damaged emergency equipment and severe injuries for people, pets, and wildlife walking along the beach.
To educate beachgoers on these changes, the Town is inviting everyone to help say "Goodbye to Deep Holes" by sharing the graphic and information provided, or the link at OakIslandNC.gov/HOLES
