Swimming, Congregating Now Prohibited At Southold Town Beaches

SOUTHOLD, NY — With an eye toward adhering to social distancing protocols during the coronavirus crisis, swimming and congregating are now prohibited on Southold Town beaches, Supervisor Scott Russell announced Monday.

The measure is in effect immediately and until further notice. Parking at town beaches and road ends will also be limited to only vehicles with town resident parking permits, Russell added.

"With warmer weather coming, we want to ensure that our beaches are enjoyed by the public in a safe manner that encourages social distancing," Russell said.

New York State, he added, has already prohibited swimming and put a plan in place for reduced parking at state beaches and parks.

Southold Town Police Chief Martin Flatley said that town beaches will be monitored by traffic control officers and that the mandate regarding only resident parking permits being allowed will be strictly enforced.

Russell also announced that resident parking permits that expired on December 31, 2019 will be valid until June 15 to allow residents more time to renew them

Russell said because of the disruption of COVID-19 in daily lives, "it is only fair to give people an extended period of time to renew their permits."

People can apply for permits online or by mail through the Southold town clerk’s office. Those with questions can call the clerk’s office at 631-765-1800. And, Russell said, the drive thru at the Southold Town Annex will soon be open so people can be able to apply in person.

The date of the opening will be announced shortly.

To keep updated on COVID-19 news and information check the town’s website at www.southoldtownny.gov or the town’s Facebook page.

For information, contact the supervisor’s office at 631-765-1889.