07 NCAC 14B .0609          trail Access and Activities

(a)  Public access to Zoo property, including all hiking trails, is available only between opening and closing hours as posted at www.nczoo.org.

(b)  Public use of hiking trails on Zoo property shall be limited to each trail's designated uses as posted. The Division may prohibit or restrict public activity occurring on Zoo property if such activity would be detrimental to the protection and use of state property or threaten the health or safety of the public.

(c)  A person using Zoo property located outside of the perimeter fence must remain on the marked trails or in a designated climbing area at all times.

(d)  Use of bicycles, all-terrain vehicles, dirt bikes, golf carts, go-karts, scooters, skateboards, and other similar conveyances is prohibited on Zoo property outside of a trail designated for such use. Public use of motorized vehicles is prohibited on Zoo property except on designated roads and parking areas.

(e)  Horseback riding is prohibited on Zoo property outside of a trail designated for such use.

(f)  The following activities are prohibited on Zoo property:

(1)           hunting;

(2)           littering; and

(3)           camping, except through a Zoo organized camping program.

(g)  Public use of Ridges Mountain trails is available only by a reservation approved by the Zoo Director or their designee. Reservations shall be approved unless such use would be detrimental to the protection and use of state property or threaten the health or safety of the public. A completed reservation request shall include the following:

(1)           requestor's name and contact information;

(2)           the name of an organization or group coordinating the use;

(3)           the number of users;

(4)           the date of the requested use; and

(5)           the intended use.

(h)  Pets are not permitted on the Ridges Mountain property except as required by federal and state law for service animals assisting individuals with disabilities.

 

History Note:        Authority G.S. 143B-135.204(a);

Eff. August 1, 2023.