Driving Has Been 'Banned' at 3 Popular Oregon Beaches

Millions of Americans will head to the beach this summer, but they'll need to find other modes of transportation aside from their cars at three popular beaches on the West coast.

The Oregon Parks and Recreation Commission has voted to essentially ban drivers from the beaches at Manzanita. Manzanita now joins Cape Kiwanda and Lincoln City as Oregon beaches banning the use of cars on sand.

City and state officials have cited overcrowding and potential harm to the environment, as well as the effort taken to help drivers after their vehicles are beached by the sand.

The newest ban prohibits driving between Oswald West and Nehalem Bay state parks, essentially covering the entire beach surface of the town. Driving was previously allowed on the beach, but only in the morning and in the months between October and April.

The only exception will be made for vehicles that are “essential to and engaged in boat launchings." Those vehicles will be allowed on the beach all year, and will not be subject to the restrictions.

The rule was put into law after a request by Manzanita's City Council. The council introduced the legislation in January of this year.

"Commenters shared concerns around safety, risks and dangers, provided examples of experiences and fears about accidents, collisions, reckless driving," the council said.

Some commenters simply wanted to preserve the natural beauty and appearance of Oregon's beaches, while others were worried about pollution and the impact on natural wildlife.

There were 72 comments in total on the potential rule during the month-long public comment period, and around 1/3 of those comments wrote in to oppose the change.

102 people also signed a petition in opposition of the rule, but the vocal minority was not enough to overturn the new rule.

Driving may not be allowed at these three Oregon beaches, but there are other areas of the state where it is still permitted. One such area is the Sunset Beach State Recreation Site, which is between Astoria and Seaside.

We'll see if citizens and motorists adhere to the rule, or if they choose to head to other beaches elsewhere in the state.