Aug 18, 2019 5:09 PMThe surfing community was stunned this week when Southampton Village Police began enforcing a section of the village code that prohibits surfing on a nearly 1-mile stretch of beach between Halsey Neck Lane and Old Town Road, and another small stretch at Fowler Lane during the summer months.
According to village code, surfing is prohibited from June 15 through September 15, between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m.
In protest of the move, a petition was created in opposition of the village’s ban, and as of Sunday morning, over 1,900 people had signed it.
“Many of us surfers were told by the police that they would tell us to get out of the ocean and give us tickets if we went in,” the petition read, adding that the fine was up to $1,000. “This understandably caused disruptions and concern among those of us who love the sport. Please support the petition to overturn this ban altogether.”
Village Mayor Jesse Warren, who is a surfer himself, said on Sunday morning that he supports the ability for people to enjoy the beaches and surfing.
He also said he was recently made aware of the code provisions pertaining to surfing and plans to address them during an upcoming board meeting.
The petition called for a “surf-in” protest at Agawam Beach, next to the Bathing Corporation at 11 a.m. on Sunday. During the protest, people planned to enter the water at 11 a.m. to see if police would enforce the law.
Mr. Warren said he planned to go down to the beach to shake some hands and take a dip in the water.
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