ISLAND BEACH STATE PARK - one of New Jersey's most treasured public spaces, provides miles of pristine shoreline and recreational opportunities, including surf fishing and beach driving. Each year, demand for vehicle access permits far exceeds supply, with passes selling out in minutes. This surge has left many New Jersey residents, who support the park through taxes, fees, and conservation efforts without the opportunity to obtain a permit, while a significant number are purchased by out-of-state individuals.

"Ocean County is proud to host several of New Jersey's most beautiful state parks, and we welcome the tourism that supports our local economy - but our Ocean County and New Jersey residents must come first. They fund these parks, and they deserve priority access, especially at Island Beach State Park," said Ocean County Commissioner Jennifier Bacchione, who serves as liaison to the Ocean County Division of Business Development and Tourism. "New Jerseyans should not have to compete with out-of-state applicants for access to their own state parks."

In a resolution sent to the State of New Jersey's Department of Environmental Protection and the Division of Parks and Forestry, the Ocean County Board of Commissioners calls for a brief priority registration period exclusively for New Jersey residents prior to the general sale. This would help ensure equitable access for citizens who contribute directly to the maintenance and preservation of the state's parks, fisheries, and coastal resources.

Ocean County Commissioner Bacchione clarified that the board's proposal would not reduce access for out-of-state visitors but would ensure fairness in the process.

"We are not proposing to limit access," Bacchione said. "We're asking the state to sequence access in a way that gives New Jersey residents a reasonable window to obtain permits first. Once that window closes, the remaining permits can be made available to everyone. It's a balanced, common-sense approach."

The Board will continue to advocate for a policy change that prioritizes New Jersey residents, reaffirming its commitment to protecting the rights of Ocean County residents to fair and reasonable access to public lands and coastal resources.

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