Cutting Out the Middle Man: Ocean City Amends Beach Tag Law For Veterans and Active Military

Ocean City, NJ -- An amendment to city ordinance that allows free access to the beaches for veterans and active military personnel is not an expansion or contraction of that particular group, Ocean City officials clarified during the council meeting on April 28.

Rather, it states that veterans and active military personnel no longer need to obtain a badge from the city.

Instead, they will be able to present a valid military ID card, DD-214 form or similar document or a driver’s license or ID card indicating they are a veteran or active military the first time they go to the beach this year.

At that time, they will be issued a beach tag they can bring with them to the beach for the rest of the summer, Ocean City Chief Financial Officer Frank Donato explained. The ordinance eliminates the need for veterans and military personnel to visit City Hall before heading to the beach.

The amendment was passed by City Council with a 5-0 vote, with Councilman and veteran Pete Guinosso recusing himself and Council Vice President Peter Madden absent during the vote.

The ordinance allowing free beach tags for active military personnel was first approved in 2013, with the ordinance allowing free beach tags for veterans coming the following year.

Beach tags are required for anyone 12 years old and older, and will be needed beginning June 11. Seasonal beach tags are $25, and $20 if purchased before June 1.

To order a beach tag and for more information, visit ocnj.us.