NJ.COM OPINION: After Belmar’s beach excess, it’s time to rethink beach access | Mulshine

The public access statute says that “no fees shall be charged solely for access to or use of tidal waterways and their shores.”

Sen. Bob Smith said the meaning of that section of the law is equally obvious. Surfers and fishermen can have access to the water. They only need badges if they set up camp on the sand.

Smith, who is a lawyer by trade, said he hopes this incident will lead to a stricter interpretation of the Public Trust Doctrine, which guarantees access to the water.

“Maybe we’ll kick the tires on ending all beach fees,” he said. “We’ll put it up for discussion.”