Dare County rules and permits:

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Pets are allowed year round on a leash no longer than 6 ft.  Pets are prohibited on designated swimming beaches.  Service animals are allowed at all times.

Fireworks are not permitted in Buxton

Beach fire permits are required

From May 1st to November 15th beach fires are only allowed at Coquina Beach, the villages of Rodanthe, Waves, Salvo, Avon, Buxton, Frisco, and Hatteras, and the Ocracoke day use area. 

From November 16th - April 30th beach fires are allowed throughout the park. 

Fires are allowed from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.  An adult must be present.  Fires must be no greater than 3 feet in diameter.  Fires must be built and maintained below the high-tide mark and 50 feet from any vegetation.  Fires cannot be left unattended, and must be extinguished upon end of use.  The area must be cleaned up.

Beer is allowed on the beach.  Wine and liquor are not officially permitted.  Please drink responsibility.

Metal detecting is NOT allowed within National Parks.

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There are no lifeguard stations in Buxton.

It is illegal to walk on the dunes, and it is also illegal to pick live sea oats growing on the beaches.

Fill in any holes you dig.  Holes in the sand can be a hazardous.

Be mindful of Noise.  Most communities consider a violation of the noise ordinance to be any sound that can be heard from inside a nearly residence, and any load noise after approx. 11 p.m.

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No glass on the beach.  Alcohol is allowed on all beaches, but if at all possible, stick to cans and plastic to save future beach-goers from ant bare foot injuries.

Surf fishing is allowed.  A fishing license is required in North Carolina and can be obtained via the NC Marine Fisheries and Wildlife website, or purchased at most tackle shop on the Outer banks.

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4x4 driving on the Beach – the beaches of Hatteras Island and Ocracoke Island are managed by the Cape Hatteras National Seashore.  Permits are required, and can be purchased online and sent via mail, or in person at one of the following locations:  Coquina Beach office, Cape Hatteras Light Station, and the Ocracoke Visitor Center.  Each vehicle must have its own permit.  Vehicles must be registered, licensed, insured, and have a current safety inspection if required in home state/country.  Vehicles must have low-pressure tire gauge, shovel, jack and jack support board.  A spare tire, first aid kit, fire extinguisher, trash bags, flashlight and tow straps are recommended. ATV’s are not permitted.  Night driving is generally allowed from November 16th through April 30th.  See current ramps and beach closings by visiting https://obxbeachaccess.com/  Obey all posted signs.