Sea turtle nesting season began May 1, and Volusia County officials are asking residents, visitors and businesses to help protect natural habitat by observing all nesting season laws and regulations. The beaches of Volusia County are home to several species of endangered or threatened sea turtles.

Each year, sea turtles nest on Florida beaches from May 1 through October 31. Endangered sea turtles emerge from the surf at night to lay their eggs in the dry sand. It is illegal to touch or disturb the
turtles, their nests and dune habitats.

You can help nesting sea turtles and hatchlings by letting the night “provide the light.” Remember
to follow beachside/beachfront county ordinances during nesting season, including:

• Keeping beach-facing drapes and blinds closed after dark
• Turn off balcony lights when not in use
• Move lamps and light fixtures away from windows
• Avoid using flash photography and flashlights while on the beach at night
• If you see a turtle at night, keep at least 50 feet away from it and remain calm and quiet
• Fireworks are prohibited on the beach at all times

If you’re just visiting for the day, when driving at the beach, use the designated traffic lanes and parking areas. Beach driving access hours are from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. throughout the nesting season, tide permitting. Flatten sandcastles, fill in holes, and take your chairs, equipment and trash with you. This is an easy way to reduce obstacles faced by sea turtles.

For more information on local ordinances and what you can do to help, visit: VolusiaSeaTurtles.org