PINELLAS COUNTY – Effective until 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 1, 2024, the barrier islands will remain accessible only to residents, business owners, and their employees with a Barrier Island Re-Entry Permit or other documentation.

To gain access to the barrier islands, citizens must provide their Barrier Island Re-Entry Permit or photo ID and reasonable proof that they reside or have legitimate business on the barrier islands. Examples of this include vehicle registration, property tax or utility bill, and proof of employment (pay stub, work ID, uniform, and work orders).

In addition, licensed tow truck drivers and licensed contractors (with a visible license # displayed on their commercial vehicle), such as plumbers and electricians, will be given access.

Until the restriction is lifted at 4 p.m. on Oct. 1, individuals will not be provided access to go to vacation rentals or hotels. Individuals or organizations who want to “street feed’ will not be permitted access unless they have coordinated with Pinellas County Emergency Management.

These restrictions are in place as a result of a meeting among the Pinellas County Administrator, City Mayors, and City Managers. The decision was made in order to maintain public safety and to allow residents the opportunity to assess damages to their homes. The barrier islands are still without power and many streets are impassable due to debris and other safety hazards.

We will provide updates when there are changes to the barrier island restrictions.