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Fire Department FAQ's

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1. Can I have a grill on my deck?

A grill is not allowed on decks of dwellings of more than a single or two family dwelling. In addition, a grill that is producing a hazardous condition may also be considered prohibited.

2. Can I have a bonfire on the beach?

There is no open burning allowed in Town Limits.

3. Can I use a fire pit or Chimera?

Yes. It must be enclosed and emit no sparks or embers into the air.

4. Can I use a sky lantern?

No. Sky lanterns are prohibited by the New Hanover County Fire Marshal.

5. What fireworks are legal?

North Carolina has restrictions on the types and ages of fireworks that are legal in the state¹²³⁴⁵. Fireworks that explode or leave the ground, such as firecrackers, bottle rockets, Roman candles, and aerial fireworks, are illegal¹²⁵. Fireworks that stay on the ground, are handheld, or produce smoke or noise, such as sparklers, snakes, and poppers, are legal¹³⁴. You must be 16 or older to buy or use fireworks in North Carolina¹³. Violating the fireworks laws can result in a fine of up to $500 and up to six months of imprisonment¹².

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General Administration

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1. How do I set up water/sewer/trash service?

Water/Sewer/Trash service may be set up by contacting Town Hall. You will need to fill out a utility service application, include a valid state ID and proof of ownership. All of these documents must be returned to Town Hall before services can be set up.

2. How can I pay my bill?

Payments are accepted by mail or in person. We also have a drop box available for after hours at Town Hall and we offer the option of bank draft enrollment. Online bill pay is also offered on our website.

3. What happens if I don’t pay my bill on time?

Utility bills are sent out bi-monthly. Payment is due within 30 days of the billing date. If payment is not received by 5:00 PM on the due date, a 10% late fee will be added to the account. Cutoff's are five days after the due date. If the cutoff day falls between Thursday and Sunday, services will be disconnected the next business day at 8:30 AM. If the payment is not received by the cut-off date at 8:30 AM, the account will be added to the cut-off list. Once your account is scheduled to be cut off, a $50 disconnect fee is added. The full balance, plus late fee and disconnect fee must be paid at Town Hall before services can be restored. The Town is not responsible for any delivery delays by the post office. Public Works employees are not permitted to accept payments. There is a $75.00 tampering fee for any meter that has been reconnected by anyone other than a Town of Wrightsville Beach representative.

4. I had a leak at my house. Are there any credits available for this situation?

Adjustments are offered to accounts that experience a leak other than those related to sewer. If you have a water leak, not related to sewer, you must provide a repair bill stating address, problem and date that it was repaired. Once we receive those items, a credit will be issued to the account affected on the sewer usage. Water will be not be credited since the water was used.

5. How do I request a re-read of my meter?

If you feel that a meter reading is incorrect, you are entitled to have your meter re-read. You must contact Public Works to request this. The meter readers will re-read your meter and contact you with the information. If the meter was read incorrectly, a credit will be issued to your account.

6. How Do I Sign Up for Automatic Bank Drafts?

Print out and complete a Bank Draft Authorization form, attach a voided check, and return it to Town Hall.

Your payment will be drafted out of your bank account automatically on the 5th of the month following billing. If you have questions about your bill, please contact us before that date.

You will still receive a copy of your bill, but it will be marked “Draft Notice– DO NOT PAY”.

Automatic Bank Draft is available to property owners only.

Completed forms may be mailed to: Town Hall, PO Box 626, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480 or faxed to 910-256-7910.

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General FAQs

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1. How do I Pay My Water Bill?

Bills are payable via cash, check, money order, credit card, and online bill pay. We have a bank draft program where your payments can be automatically deducted from your checking account. Payments may be made in -person at Town Hall M-F 8:00 – 5:00 PM, or may be mailed to PO Box 626, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480. Please do not mail cash. If you are paying through your bank’s on-line banking, we strongly suggest mailing your payment a few days before the due date to allow for extra processing time by your bank.

To pay through our on-line bill pay program, please click here.  

Bank Draft Authorization Form

2. How Do I Pay a Parking Citation?

Fines can be paid in four ways:

1.  In Person: 321 Causeway Drive, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480

2.  By Mail:  Make check payable to Town of Wrightsville Beach

- Check/Money Order, DO NOT MAIL CASH

3.  By Phone: (910)256-5453

- Visa, Mastercard, or Discover

3. How Do I Pay a Civil Citation?

You can pay online, by mail, or in person at Town Hall.

4. How Do I Appeal a Civil Citation?

To appeal a citation please fill out the citation appeal form located on main page and turn it in to the Police Department Administrative Support Specialist. Make sure to have it notarized.

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Human Resources

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1. How do I apply for job postings?

Fill out an employment application listed on the website and mail the application along with Resume to: Wrightsville Beach Town Hall, 321 Causeway Drive, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480 or Fax to: 910-509-5026
Please note: If you are applying for a Police Officer position, you will also need to complete the F3 as well as the Release of Personal Information.

Employment Application

2. What are your current job openings?

All available jobs are listed on our Employment page.
Job Opportunities

3. Will you verify that you received my application?

You will only be contacted if you are an interview candidate.

4. What happens to my application once it is submitted?

Your application will be reviewed by the Human Resources Officer after the closing date has passed. The most qualified applicants will be contacted for an interview.

5. Is there a deadline to submit my application?

Your application must be submitted by the closing date for the position.

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Hurricane

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1. WHAT IS THE LATEST INFORMATION ON THE HURRICANE AND WHEN IS IT SUPPOSED TO HIT WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH?

Stay informed by tuning in to your local media outlets via television, radio, and internet or check online weather websites such as the National Weather Service or the Weather Channel for the latest storm predictions and other pertinent information.  The Town of Wrightsville Beach notifies local media outlets of any Town evacuation decisions and any other important information that may affect the public before, during, and after a storm.  The Town also includes up-to-date information on its website, Facebook page, and emails information to those residents who provide us with their email address. You may click here to add your email address to our distribution list.

2. WHAT DOES A STATE OF EMERGENCY MEAN? DOES THIS MEAN WE MUST EVACUATE?

A State of Emergency is declared to initiate state and/or federal funding and assistance when weather-related or other events have the potential to cause significant damage to an area.  It does not mean that an order of evacuation or curfew has been instituted.  A separate evacuation order may be issued following a State of Emergency declaration.

3. WHEN IS THE DRAWBRIDGE CLOSING?

Once a mandatory evacuation has been ordered, the bridge remains in the down position, barricades are put into place, and traffic onto Wrightsville Beach is suspended by local law enforcement.  Without a mandatory evacuation order, the US Coast Guard and the Bridge Tender will make the decision to lock the bridge in the down position when sustained winds reach 30 – 40 mph, suspending marine traffic only.

4. WHAT IS THE CRITERIA FOR AN EVACUATION?

Evacuation recommendations are based on a variety of factors including hurricane conditions, predicted rainfall amounts, storm surge, and other potentially damaging effects that the hurricane could have on the Town of Wrightsville Beach.  An order to evacuate is determined by the Town of Wrightsville Beach Board of Aldermen.

5. WHO MUST EVACUATE?

• Voluntary evacuation:  A voluntary evacuation indicates that conditions are likely to deteriorate and you may want to seek alternative shelter. 
• Mandatory visitor evacuation:  A mandatory visitor evacuation indicates that all non-residents must evacuate the Town of Wrightsville Beach and will not be allowed to return until the evacuation order is lifted.
• Mandatory evacuation:  A mandatory evacuation indicates that all persons must evacuate the Town of Wrightsville Beach.  Emergency services may be suspended when conditions are too dangerous to respond.  Electricity and water/sewer services may not be available due to storm-related outages.
• What happens if someone chooses not to leave during a mandatory evacuation?  Can they be arrested or forced to leave? YES, North Carolina General Statue 14-288.20A makes it a Class 2 misdemeanor to violate any provision of an ordinance or a declaration enacted or declared by a municipality in an effort to deal with a State of Emergency.  Under N.C.G.S. 166A-19.31, a municipality has the authority to place restrictions, curfews, or make evacuation orders in a state of emergency.  It is unlawful to violate those restrictions or orders.  Mandatory evacuation orders are initiated in order to help prevent injury or loss of life.

6. IF I HAVE TO GO TO WORK OR LEAVE THE ISLAND, HOW WILL I RETURN TO GATHER MY BELONGINGS IF A MANDATORY EVACUATION IS ORDERED WHILE I’M AWAY?

The Town of Wrightsville Beach will make an announcement prior to enforcement of a mandatory evacuation that will allow residents enough time to comply with the evacuation order.  Traffic checkpoints will be established when an evacuation order is given.  Therefore, residents should have their vehicle tax decal affixed to their car in order to return to the Town of Wrightsville Beach prior to evacuating.

7. WHEN AND WHERE SHOULD I PURCHASE MY WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH VEHICLE TAX DECAL?

Vehicle tax decals are used for resident identification upon re-entry to the Town of Wrightsville Beach following an evacuation and may be purchased at the Pivot Parking office located at 321 Causeway Drive during regular office hours.  The decals should be purchased annually on or before the first day of April.  Sale of the vehicle tax decals will cease under hurricane warning conditions.

• What identification do I need to show to purchase my vehicle tax decal? A driver’s license or other valid picture ID, plus an additional item such as a water bill, or other billing statement reflecting your name and Wrightsville Beach address is required when purchasing your vehicle tax decal.
• Can you mail the vehicle tax decal to me? Vehicle tax decals MUST be purchased in person from the Pivot Parking office anytime throughout the year during regular business hours.  Tax decals will NOT be mailed. 
• Can I buy my vehicle tax decals online? Not at this time.

8. ARE YOU GOING TO SHUT OFF ELECTRICITY AND/OR WATER ON THE ISLAND? IF SO, WHEN?

Once the Town has suspended operations during a mandatory evacuation, Town of Wrightsville Beach water and sewer services may be interrupted due to weather related damage or power outages.  Electricity, provided by Duke Energy, may also be interrupted due to weather conditions.

9. CAN I GET A STORM DRAIN CLEANED OUT BEFORE THE STORM GETS HERE?

Storm drains are continually monitored before, during, and after all storm events.

10. WHY IS MY STREET FLOODING?

During a storm event or an excessive high tide event, the storm drain outfall pipes are submerged underwater and will not drain until the tide recedes.

11. IS THE WATER SAFE TO DRINK AND/OR BATHE IN?

After an event, residents will not be permitted to occupy their homes until the water system has been deemed safe and the sewer system is operable.

12. WILL THE TOWN PICK UP LOOSE REFUSE FOR DISPOSAL (YARD WASTE, LIMBS, FURNITURE, ETC.) RIGHT BEFORE THE STORM?

As manpower allows, Public Works will send sanitation trucks to collect refuse. However, any loose objects should be secured prior to the storm’s arrival in case conditions prevent collection.

13. WHEN WILL HURRICANE DEBRIS BE PICKED UP? WILL THERE BE A FEE?

The normal debris pick-up procedures are in effect unless Town of Wrightsville Beach officials determine that a free pick up will be offered.  Instructions on what type of debris will be picked up and the schedule for that pick-up will be determined following the event.  Free debris pick-up for vegetative debris, household waste, white goods, and e-waste is only for storm-related debris that is located on your property.

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Parking Meters

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1. How much does it cost to park at a meter?

Single-space parking meters will accept nickels, dimes, and quarters only, and the rate is $5.00/hour or $25/day. Paystations in lots and street ends accept credit cards, bills (up to $10), and coins (quarters and dollar coins), and the rate is $5.00 per hour.

You may also pre-pay for your parking at the Parking Office before you head to the beach. Passes are sold in hourly, daily, multiple days, and weekly quantities. This does not guarantee a parking space, but it is a convenience should you choose to pay before you find a space. No refunds are issued if you cannot find a parking space once a pass from the Parking Office has been purchased.

2. How many parking spaces are metered?

Approximately 1,800 spaces are enforced and available for public parking.

3. When are the meters enforced?

Meters are enforced every day from March 1st to October 31st. 

4. What do I do if a parking meter doesn't work?

If you have parked at a parking meter that is broken, please call 910-256-5453. Make sure you have the name of the street where the meter is located and the meter number.  Any issues with meters, Pay Stations, or the Pay by Phone system should be reported to the parking office immediately.  Citations resulting from unreported equipment malfunctions will be upheld.

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Parking Program Booted Cars

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1. When can my car be booted?

Handicap

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Parking Tickets and Violations

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1. Is handicap parking free?

§ 74.23  HANDICAPPED PARKING.

   (A)   No person shall park or leave standing a vehicle in any parking space located on a public street or in an off-street parking facility owned or leased by the town and designated for use by the public as parking facilities and which has been appropriately designated for the handicapped when the vehicle so parked does not display the distinguishing license plate, placard or identification card as provided in G.S. § 20-37.6.

   (B)   Vehicles displaying the distinguishing license plate, placard or identification card as provided in G.S. § 20-37.6 may park in designated handicapped parking spaces at any location in the Town without the payment of any fee. However, it shall be unlawful for such vehicles to park in any parking meter space not designated for handicapped parking without paying the required fee.

2. When can my car be booted?

The parking program has the authority to use wheel locks (boots) on illegally parked vehicles for which there are 3 or more outstanding, unpaid, and overdue parking tickets. The operator of such a vehicle is known as a scofflaw.

3. Who operates the parking program?

The Wrightsville Beach Parking Program is a public/private partnership between the Town of Wrightsville Beach and Pivot Parking. Pivot Parking manages the day-to-day operations, but the Town sets all fees, penalties, hours of operation, location of meters, and other policy issues.

4. How much are parking tickets?

Parking fine amounts vary depending on the violation. Most meter violations are $50. If not paid, within 3 days, the penalty is $60; if not paid within 10 days, the penalty is $70.

5. What if I feel that some or any information has been mistakenly cited on a parking violation?

Please contact parking office at 910-256-5453. Staff will provide prompt assistance to resolve the issue.

6. What if I have questions or concerns about the violation?

Inquire by phone at 910-256-5453 or in person at the parking office at 321 Causeway Drive.

7. What if I feel that a violation has been issued in error?

Call the parking office (910) 256-5453 for information on how to file an appeal.

Appeal a Citation page.

8. How do I pay a ticket?

Check out our parking citation payment options here: https://www.townofwrightsvillebeach.com/165/Pay-a-Parking-Citation

Pay a Citation page.

9. What do I do if I get a ticket?

Pay or appeal the citation within 3 days of the issuance.

10. What if I fail to respond to a violation?

If you fail to pay or appeal the violation within 3 days, a late fee of $10 will be applied to the violation amount. After 10 days, another late fee of $20 will be applied to the violation amount.

If you continue to ignore your obligation to pay, the town may seek alternative forms of collection, including a collection agency, credit bureau action, or small claims court. Individuals who accumulate 3 or more unpaid citations are subject to have the vehicle immobilized (booted) or towed until full payment is made.

11. Can I be held responsible for tickets issued to a vehicle that I co-own, even though I do not use the vehicle? Am I responsible even if I am not the driver?

Yes. As a registered owner, you are liable for any citations regardless of whether or not you were using the vehicle at the time the citations were issued.

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Parks and Recreation

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1. Do I have to be a Wrightsville Beach resident or a member to participate in Parks & Recreation programs?

No membership is required and you don’t have to be a Wrightsville Beach resident or property owner to participate in Parks and Recreation programs and activities.  Anyone may participate!

2. Do I need a permit to have a wedding on the beach?

Yes, weddings on the beach require a special event permit. Complete and submit the special event permit application and mail it into the Park Office along with the appropriate fee.  Our Special Event Permit page will have a link to download the application.  Feel free to call (910-256-7925) or email (parksandrecreation@towb.org) the Park Office if you have any questions. 

3. How do I register for a class/program?

Complete a registration form / waiver and return it to the park office along with the appropriate fee for the class.  We accept cash, check, or credit card (additional $4 bank fee).

4. What are the Park Office hours?

8:00 am - 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday

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Planning & Inspections

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1. How do I apply for a Building Permit?

Building Permit applications can be found on the Planning & Inspections Department page. Paper copies of this permit are available in the Planning & Inspections Department.

2. How do I apply for a Zoning Permit?

Zoning Permits can be accessed via the Planning & Inspections Department page. Paper copies are available at the Planning & Inspections Department Offices located at 321 Causeway Drive Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480.

3. Do I need to apply for a CAMA Minor Permit?

If your property is located within an Area of Environmental Concern (AEC) and if your project involves over 200 square feet of ground disturbance you may need to obtain a CAMA Minor Development Permit. Within the Town of Wrightsville Beach the two primary AEC's are the Ocean Erodible Area and the Estuarine Shoreline. The Ocean Erodible Area generally includes most oceanfront properties. The Estuarine Shoreline generally includes most sound front properties. For additional information please contact Planning & Inspections at (910) 256-7937.

CAMA Information

4. Do I need to obtain a Tree Alteration/Removal Permit?

If you are planning on pruning, trimming, or in anyway altering a Live Oak or Eastern Red Cedar (protected trees) then you must obtain a Tree Alteration Permit from the Town of Wrightsville Beach. If you need to remove a protected tree that is creating a hazard or that is within the buildable area of a lot, then a Tree Removal Permit must be obtained. The permit fee for Tree Alteration/Removal Permits is $50. The maximum fine for altering or removing protected without a permit is $2500 in addition to a possible misdemeanor charge. Tree Alteration/Removal Permit Application

5. What zoning district is my property located in?

The official zoning map is on display in the Planning & Inspections department. 

6. What are the hours of construction for the Town of Wrightsville Beach?

Click here to see the hours of operation. Hours of Construction

7. I am an appraiser or real estate agent and I need some information on a property for my client. Where can I get this information?

If you would like the Planning and Inspections Department to provide answers to your questions regarding a specific property for real estate or appraisal purposes, you will need to submit a zoning verification letter request. Upon receipt of the request and the application fee of $75, the Town will research your questions and provide responses in the form of a letter. Often times the Town Attorney will assist in reviewing these documents and with conducting research on complex properties. Zoning Verification Request Form

8. How do I determine the location of the pier headline?

A map of the pier headline is located in the Planning & Inspections department.

9. How do I determine the location of the 1939 Property Line?

A map of the 1939 property line is located in the Planning and Inspections Department. Please feel free to stop by to take a look at the map.

10. I think somebody is doing work without a permit, how can I check on this?

The Town of Wrightsville Beach maps all active permits by calendar year. A map showing all of the permits on the island can be accessed via the link below . If a permit for a property is not shown on this map please contact the Planning and Inspections Department at 910-256-7937. Permit Map

11. Somebody is working outside of the allowed hours of construction how do I report this?

Please click here to view the complaint reporting form. Complaint Report Form

12. What is the maximum height for residential structures in Wrightsville Beach?

The maximum height of all residential structures is 40 feet. This measurement is taken from the centerline of the street.

13. My neighbors lot is overgrown, does the Town have an ordinance that addresses public nuisances?

Yes, the Town has a list of Public Nuisances at the link below . If you would like to report a public nuisance please contact the Public Works Department at 910-256-7935. Public Nuisances Enumerated

14. How can I check the status of my permit?

The Town of Wrightsville Beach maps all active permits on a daily basis. Please view the map available via the link below . If you do not see your permit listed then the permit has probably not been issued. Feel free to contact the Planning and Inspections Department to inquire about the status of your permit. Permit Map

15. Do I need a Stormwater Permit?

Please contact the Stormwater Manager at 910-256-7935 to discuss whether your project will require a Stormwater Permit.

16. I want to add signage to my business what do I have to do to obtain a sign permit? What are the applicable requirements?

Section 155.10 of the Code of Ordinances specifies signage requirements. Please complete a sign permit application and submit it to the Planning and Inspections Department along with a rendering of the sign and the required payment of $75. Click here to view: Article 155.10 Sign Regulations

17. What is the fee schedule for the Planning and Inspections Department?

The fee schedule for the Planning and Inspections Department can be accessed via this link: Planning and Inspections Fees

18. How do I go about paying for my permit?

At this time the Planning and Inspections Department is only able to accept either cash or checks.

19. What is FEMA's 50% Rule?

Please review the applicable sections of the Town's Code of Ordinances that pertain to the 50% rule: 50% Rule

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Police Department FAQ

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1. How to Access Police Services

How to Access Police Services

2. How do I appeal a civil citation?

To appeal a citation please fill out the citation appeal form located on main page and turn it in to the Police Department Administrative Support Specialist. Make sure to have it notarized.

Click here to go to the form.

3. How do I pay for a Civil Citation?

Citations may be paid via cash, check, or money order. Civil Citation payments may be made in person at Town Hall, located at 321 Causeway Drive, Monday- Friday 8:00am to 5:00pm.

If you are mailing your payment, be sure to include a copy of your citation or reference the CC number and remit payments: to Town of Wrightsville Beach, PO Box 626, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480. DO NOT MAIL CASH.

4. Does the Police Department do finger printing?

No. To get your fingerprint card done you may visit the County Court House in downtown Wilmington or the Sheriffs Department.

5. Can the police check on my residence while I am away?

Yes. To sign up for residential checks please submit the Residential Check form to the Police Department front desk. You mail do this by fax, email, mail, or in person.

Residential Security Check

6. Can the police open my car if I have locked my keys inside?

Because of the potential for damage to vehicles, the police department does not open locked vehicles. A locksmith as well as most tow companies and taxi drivers will respond to your location and unlock your vehicle for a fee. If a child is locked inside the vehicle, the police will respond to remove the child from the vehicle.

7. Does the Department sponsor individuals for Basic Law Enforcement Training?

Yes.  The Wrightsville Beach Police Department now has a recruit program that offers a paid sponsorship for individuals to attend Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET).  This paid sponsorship offers the recruit the ability to receive a full time salary with benefits while attending BLET. The recruit will also get the opportunity to work directly with members of the Police Department while in BLET to allow them a chance to gain more intimate knowledge of the agency, town and citizens.  Interested in the recruit program?  To apply for a sponsorship fill out the town application, an F-3 (11/2022), and a general release of information.  All forms can be notarized and turned in at the front desk of the Police Department.

8. Are Golf Carts, UTV's and other Low Speed Vehicles (LSVs) allowed in Wrightsville Beach?

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Police Department Services and Equipment

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1. Does the Police Department have a Reserve Officer Program?

The Wrightsville Beach Police Department has a paid/flexible work (not full time) positions for Reserve Officers.  A Reserve Officer is a fully certified police officer who helps to augment our force.

Anyone interested in serving as a Reserve Officer or serving through non-law enforcement volunteer opportunities, should email the Chief at dsquires@towb.org 

2. My vehicle was towed by the Wrightsville Beach Police Department. How do I get it back?

The yellow copy of the Impound Form must be obtained at the Police Department. On it will be the address/phone number of the rotation wrecker service used to tow the vehicle.

Once the yellow copy of the Impound Form is obtained, which requires proof of vehicle ownership, the form can be taken to the storage facility operated by the wrecker service and the vehicle retrieved with payment of charges. Wrecker companies will not release a vehicle without the form or before payment to them is made.

3. What do I do when I have found a lost, stray or injured animal?

Contact the Planning & Parks Department. Our Park Ranger will assist you, when on duty or we can locate resources to help.

4. How long can a vehicle be parked on the street before it's considered abandoned?

A vehicle may be considered abandoned if left on public property for a period of 24 hours or longer. An abandoned vehicle on private property shall be the responsibility of the person in charge of the property to tow such vehicle. The Police Department can assist in determining if a vehicle has been reported stolen.

5. Do you do fingerprinting?

The Wrightsville Beach Police Department does not provide a public fingerprinting service. For public fingerprinting, contact the New Hanover County Sheriff's Office at 910-798-4200 or Wilmington Police Department at 910-343-3600.

6. Does the Police Department have a jail?

The Wrightsville Beach Police Department has a holding cell, used to temporarily hold people who are in custody until they can be released or transported to the New Hanover County Jail.

7. Does the Police Department have any volunteer programs?

While there are no formal volunteer positions, we are always open to collaborate with interested volunteers so that we don't miss an opportunity.  Anyone interested in volunteering should email the Chief at dsquires@towb.org 

8. What do I need to bring with me to get a Town Decal?

Vehicle registration and proof of residency are the major requirements. The Town Decal is a tax levied on the residents of Wrightsville Beach and the purchase is required annually. Decals purchased between January 1st and March 31st cost $15.

Decals purchased after March 31st are $30. All residents are required to purchase a decal for each vehicle registered to an address in Wrightsville Beach.

Non-resident property owners may purchase decals, but there is no requirement for them to have them. The vehicle registration and proof of property ownership is required. Residency can be proven with a deed, Progress Energy bill, lease agreement, Town water bill, etc.

9. Can the police open my car if I have locked my keys inside?

Because of the potential for damage to vehicles, the police department does not open locked vehicles. A locksmith as well as most tow companies and taxi drivers will respond to your location and unlock your vehicle for a fee. If a child is locked inside the vehicle, the police will respond to remove the child from the vehicle.

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Police Reports

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1. Can I make a report anonymously?

Yes, tell the telecommunicator you wish to remain anonymous.

2. Will the Police Department take a report over the phone?

It is the policy of the Wrightsville Beach Police Department to take reports in person. An officer may respond to the location the incident occurred; to your home if you live within the Town limits; or you may come in to our station to make a report.

3. How do I get a copy of an accident or case report?

Our Front Desk is open Monday - Friday from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. You can come to the Police Department to pick up a copy of a report. Please call ahead of time so they can have it ready for you. Or, you may send a written request along with a self addressed envelope to the Wrightsville Beach Police Department, PO Box 452, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480.

4. How long do I have to wait before I report someone missing?

There is no waiting period for someone to be reported missing. Report as soon as you notice anything abnormal.

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Police Station and Employees

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1. Who may register a complaint against WBPD or one of its members?

Any citizen or employee of the Wrightsville Beach Police Department may make a complaint. All complaints against the agency or its members will be documented by the appropriate authority. In order to proceed with a formal investigation conducted by the Chief of Police or their designee, an anonymous completed complaint is required from the complainant summarizing the alleged misconduct. Once the investigation has been completed, a Finding will be established regarding whether a violation has occurred according to the evidence.  Final disposition status will be determined.  Please click on Findings for more information.  This form is called the Personnel Complaint Report.

2. Where do I purchase a Town Decal?

You may purchase Town Decals at Town Hall, located at:
Wrightsville Beach Town Hall
321 Causeway Drive
Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480

3. Where are you located?

The Wrightsville Beach Police Department is located at 3 Bob Sawyer Drive.

4. When should I call 911?

Whenever there is an immediate threat to life, limb or property. If lives are in danger, there are serious injuries, or a crime is in progress, never hesitate to dial 911.

5. How late is the Police Department open?

The Wrightsville Beach Police Department functions around the clock. The 911 Center can be accessed by phone at all times, and officers are on duty to patrol the Town 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The Wrightsville Beach Police Department Front Desk is open Monday - Friday from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. and can be reached by dialing 910-256-7945.

6. Does the Wrightsville Beach Police Department have a lost and found?

Found property is processed, logged and stored in a manner similar to the processing of crime scene evidence. If an owner can be identified, the Department makes every effort to contact them. If there are no identifiable marks on the item, owners can come to the station and a search of reports will be made. Once ownership requirements are satisfied, the item will be released. Items that are not claimed within a year are sold at auction.

7. How does one offer a commendation or a note of appreciation?

Anyone trying to offer a note of praise or appreciation is encouraged to email the Chief at dsquires@towb.org 

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Public Works - Sanitation

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1. Trash - How many days a week is trash picked up?

Residential is twice a week. Refer to the Sanitation Department Residential Pickup Days schedule to find which two days your street is picked up.

2. Trash - Where are the beach trash cans?

Due to beach erosion and a change of operations it is not possible to have trash barrels on the beach.  Please dispose of beach trash in appropriate trash roll carts.  Beach Trash Roll Carts are located at Beach Access Street End Entrances and Public Parking Lots.  The Town of Wrightsville Beach has outsourced Sanitation Services to Wall’s Recycling for all sanitation services including beach trash, residential and commercial trash and yard debris disposal.  Please dispose of all waste in appropriate receptacles.  Let’s all do our part to “PACK IT IN & PACK IT OUT” and keep the beach and environment clean and pristine for everyone’s enjoyment!

3. Trash - Why was my trash not picked up?

Was there yard debris, bldg materials, electronics in your cart? If so, it needs to be removed and a request made for separate pickup.

We do not have a set time of day for each street. Daily routes start at 7:00 a.m. and trash carts should be out at that time. Even if it seems the truck comes by at the same time of day, occasionally issues develop that cause a shift in schedules.

A new employee or route alteration may have missed you by accident.

4. Yard Debris - When will my yard debris be picked up?

Yard debris is scheduled on Wednesdays.  To get on the schedule, call Public Works by Monday of the week you want it picked up.  Loose debris should be bagged.  Branches should be less than 4' and stacked neatly at curb.

5. Bulk Items - Do you pick up furniture or other bulk items?

Yes, the town's Sanitation Department will pick up furniture, appliances, and miscellanous items for a fee. See fee schedule on Sanitation page.

6. Bulk items - Is there a drop off location for bulk items?

There are no drop off locations in Wrightsville Beach for bulk items, trash, or yard debris.

7. Bulk Items - How will I be billed for pickup requests?

Charges for furniture, appliances, miscellanous items will show up on the next water, sewer, and trash billl as RTRSH (rough trash).

8. Does the town provide curbside recycling service?

No. Regular household recycling should be taken to the recycling center at 321 Causeway Dr.

9. Trash Cart - Why do I have a rollback violation on my trash cart and how do I pay the violation fee?

Trash carts are subject to being charged a $15.00 rollback violation fee if left out on a non-scheduled pickup day. Scheduled days are the regular two days a week trash is picked up on your street. The fee will show up on your next water, sewer, and trash bill.

10. Trash Cart - What do I need to do to get my trash cart replaced?

Trash carts that are not deemed fixable will be replaced.  Call Public Works and report damage.

11. Yard Debris - How will I be billed for yard debris pickup?

Charges for yard debris will show up on the next water, sewer, and trash billl as RTRSH (rough trash). See Sanitation Fee Schedule for pricing.

12. Yard Debris - Is there a drop off location for yard debris?

There are no drop off locations in Wrightsville Beach for bulk items, trash, or yard debris.

13. Trash Cart - My trash cart is missing.

Public Works no longer looks for lost trash carts. They are the responsibility of the owner. Serial numbers are not tracked. It's advised that cart owners write the cart serial numbers down for their records or write the address associated with the cart under the lid with permanent marker. Contact Public Works for cart replacement if lost or stolen.

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Public Works - Stormwater

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1. There is a storm drain in street near my home. It has been cleared of debris so why is water backing up into my yard?

Living in a coastal community that is almost at or below sea level sometimes we get rain events during a high tide. This can cause a delay in the water draining because it has to equalize with the level of banks channel. At the elevation we are at, this is a situation that can't be avoided.

2. How often and how much line does the storm water department clean per year?

We clean 10% of the entire system per year, which equates to approximately 4,745 linear feet of drainage line.

3. If I am building on my property, what is the maximum area I can build upon before I am required to get a storm water permit?

Anything over 500 square feet outside of the old footprint of impervious area is required to get a storm water permit.

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Public Works - Water & Sewer

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1. Why does my house have low water pressure?

Possible reasons for low water pressure:
1) Private home valves sometimes are partially or completely turned off by accident.
2) Water leaks - any damage to the pipe that results in a leak, whether large or small.
3) Peak periods - area residents using water at the same time.
4) Mineral deposits - older homes still using galvanized iron pipes will have mineral deposit buildup over a period of time.
Expanded answers can be found in the Public Works Water & Sewer page.

2. Do you need to enter the house to check my water pressure?

No. An outside source, such as a hose bib, will be used to check the water pressure.

3. Why does my water smell so bad?

The smell could be due to hydrogen sulfide or sulfur bacteria in the water heater, water softener, water distribution system. If the water has not been turned on recently, try running both hot and cold water for a few minutes to flush system. Reference the following link for more information;  /DocumentCenter/View/887/Bad-Smelling-Water

4. Why is the water turning my clothes yellow when I wash them?

There is a high iron content in the water from the aquifer the town uses.

5. Where can I find information I need to set my water softener?

Refer to the town's Annual Consumer Confidence report found on the Public Works Water & Sewer page.