News Release

Beach Renourishment Update: New Restrictions for Dogs near Fish Haul Creek

February 13, 2025

As part of accepting the 2025-2026 Hilton Head Island Beach Renourishment Project permit from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), the Town of Hilton Head Island will be required to amend its municipal code to restrict dog activity near Fish Haul Creek.

The area to be restricted does not currently experience substantial dog or human activity given its unique location and tidal movement. No other beach areas will be affected by this permit requirement to restrict dog activity.

The USFWS permit requirement seeks to protect endangered shore bird species who migrate and nest in an area about the size of two football fields and about 600 ft. away from the Fish Haul Beach public access point.

USFWS has indicated that dogs may be disruptive to the birds’ habitat. The new restrictions will go into effect once the municipal code changes are adopted by Town Council. The area will be marked with signage so residents and visitors are aware of the new restrictions.

Stay Updated on Our 2025 Beach Renourishment Project!

In the coming months, you will be able to follow our progress on beach renourishment with daily location updates, an interactive map, photos, FAQs, and more:

• Visit our website at https://hiltonheadislandsc.gov/beachrenourish2025/
• Sign Up: Get email and text notifications through our free e-subscription service at https://hiltonheadislandsc.gov. Click subscribe & simply select “Beach Renourishment Project Updates” under topic categories.
• Follow Us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/townofhhi

Share Your Feedback. If you have specific comments to share or questions to ask about beach renourishment, please reach out to us at communications@hiltonheadislandsc.gov — we’d love to hear from you!