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Large Changes to Parking on Oak Island, NC

Effective on the 1st of April 2023, two large changes are occurring to parking on Oak Island, NC. The first change is that parking at beach accesses and other designated spots, will now be paid parking. Guests will have the ability to purchase parking passes by the hour, day, week, and for a limited supply an annual pass. Permanent residents will be able to obtain up to 3 parking passes for a nominal processing fee. All of these passes are non transferable, and are attached to the license plate number of the vehicle. The second change is that Right of Way parking is going away completely. From April 1st to September 30th, 9AM to 5PM ALL Right of Way parking is prohibited, violations of this will result in a fine. The change to Right of Way parking is across the entire island. 

We understand this is a large change for many of our guests who have been coming to Oak Island for many years now, and we strive to keep you informed of these changes. The Town of Oak Island has published a webpage explaining the new law and answering many questions about it, that webpage can be accessed here. On that webpage is also a timeline of the development of this program, and also a link at the top that can be used to provide feedback about the program. 
Who Does this affect?

Everyone, Guests, Property Owners, even the companies on Oak Island are not exempt.

When is it in affect?

From April 1st to September 30th, 9 AM to 5 PM Daily.

Where does this affect?

Right of Way parking is prohibited for the entire island. The paid parking primarily affect beach and marina accesses. Parking at commercial establishments and private properties are not affected.

What is the cost?
  • $5 per hour for up to 3 hours
  • $20 per day or any duration greater than 4 hours
  • $80 per week for 7 consecutive days
  • $175 per annual period from April 1 - September 30 (NOTE: limit of 1,000 Annual Passes sold)

NOTE: The total amount spent per vehicle will be monitored. When the total in a day reaches the equivalent of a day permit, the system will automatically upgrade the permit for that vehicle to a day permit, capping total charges at $20 per day. This is the ONLY tier at which charges are capped.

Can I share a pass?

No, all passes are linked to the License Plate number of the vehicle, and can not be transfered.

How do I purchase a pass?

4 Ways exist to purchase a pass:

All passes activate when they are purchased. 

What do I need for this?

You will need to provide:

  • Email
  • Phone Number
  • License Plate Tag Number / State of Registration
  • Credit / Debit Card

Once registered, you only need to select your parking zone, duration, verify the vehicle you are using, and pay.

Does this affect Handicapped Parking?

Individuals that use Handicapped Parking do not require a parking pass IN HANDICAPPED PARKING SPACES ONLY. Parking in a space not marked as designated handicapped parking will require a paid parking pass.

I own a home on Oak Island, how do I get a Town Parking Pass?

Please follow the link here to our page for property owners.

For full program details please go to the Oak Island website here