Rule 391-4-7-.03. Shorebird and Sea Bird Habitat Protection

1. (1) In order to protect habitat for shorebirds and sea birds, except as provided in paragraph (e) of this subsection (1), no person shall:

   1. (a) Enter the natural areas known as Egg Island Bar Natural Area, Satilla River Marsh Island Natural Area, or St. Catherines Island Bar Natural Area at any time.
   2. (b) Enter the portion of Little Tybee Natural Area which has been designated by signs indicating that the area is seasonally closed to human access. The location of seasonally closed areas will depend on local island configuration and bird usage but will not interfere with boaters landing on Litte Tybee Natural Area.
   3. (c) Enter any portion of the dredge spoil islands known as Brunswick Bird Island and Cumberland Dividings Island between March 15 and August 31. In-water signage will indicate areas subject to seasonal closure, including the intertidal zone.
   4. (d) Enter any portion of Ogeechee Bar between March 1 and October 15. In-water signage will indicate areas subject to seasonal closure, including the intertidal zone.
   5. (e) The restrictions in this chapter do not apply to the properly authorized actions of contractors and associates of the department when conducting research or monitoring activities for birds on these islands, or when responding to stranded marine mammals or other emergencies.

2. (2) Pets.

   1. (a) Pets are not permitted at any time of year on Egg Island Bar Natural Area, Satilla River Marsh Island Natural Area, St. Catherines Island Bar Natural Area, Ogeechee Bar, Brunswick Bird Island, Cumberland Dividings, or Little Tybee Natural Area.

Authority: O.C.G.A. §§ 12-3-74(a)(1), 12-3-90et seq., 27-1-6(1)(B), and 27-1-33.

History. Original Rule entitled "Shorebird and Sea Bird Habitat Protection" adopted. F. Apr. 30, 1998; eff. May 20, 1998.

Amended: F. Feb. 5, 2026; eff. Feb. 25, 2026.