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Cameron County will unveil new signage aimed at preventing people from driving on the delicate dunes on South Padre Island, with warnings including the threat of prosecution.
“Driving On The Sand Dunes is Prohibited” signage will go up this week as a reminder that driving up and over the dunes from the beach is banned by law.
The effort is part of the county’s continuing dune preservation efforts and is contained in the 2019 Cameron County Erosion Response Plan. The new signage is a partnership between the county, the Texas General Land Office and TxDOT.
“The posting of these signs is one of the many steps we’ve taken to ensure that our exceptional coastal beaches and natural resources remain preserved,” said County Judge Eddie Treviño Jr.
“Last year, we re-nourished approximately 2,200 linear shoreline at Isla Blanca Park, and through our great partnership with state agencies, we are pleased to announce this additional coastal preservation effort,” he added.
Driving on the dunes can subject a motorist both civil and criminal penalties. Under state law, it is a Class C misdemeanor, with a maximum $500 fine.
In addition, under the Texas Natural Resources Code, a fine of between $50 and $2,000 can be levied for each offense. Additional fines may be incurred via the Texas Administrative Code.
“The signage will help to deter any driving on the dunes that we all know is detrimental to the ecological system,” said Cameron County Precinct 1 Commissioner Sofia C. Benavides.
