EVENT BACKGROUND:

Galveston County is preparing for the annual “Go Topless Weekend” also referred to as “Jeep Weekend” event on Bolivar Peninsula this year from May 14^th – May 18^th. This event historically has drawn over 100,000 visitors to the beaches on Bolivar Peninsula which has caused serious public safety and life safety emergencies for visitors and residents alike. Over the past several years, this event has experienced homicides, shootings, sexual assaults, fatality crashes, assaults, and other acts of disorderly conduct. This event also creates additional challenges for emergency personnel such as traffic control, accessibility, lack of medical resources/hospitals, and unpredictable tides.

LAW ENFORCEMENT PLANNING:

In response to these public safety hazards, the Galveston County Sheriff’s Office has developed a strategic plan in an attempt to deter further violence from occurring and ensure public safety. To maintain public safety, the Galveston County Sheriff’s Office relies on partnerships with external public safety agencies for assistance during the event. GCSO has requested local, state, and federal resources to accomplish our mission while greatly increasing law enforcement presence.

 TRAFFIC CONTROL:

Please follow directions from all message boards, signage, and law enforcement. These official traffic control devices will direct you to beach entrances, exits and other traffic related matters.  Expect increased congestion as there will be higher traffic levels on Bolivar and other surrounding areas during the event. You should also be prepared for traffic delays and plan for extra travel time. Some streets may be temporarily restricted or redirected to accommodate the implemented traffic plan.

Access to neighborhoods and residences WILL NOT be restricted to residents, renters or property owners. In order to gain access to restricted streets, you will be required to produce, a driver’s license with the property address, renters’ agreement, utility bill, or other proof of ownership. Owners may also obtain a “homeowners” placard which are being issued by Galveston County. These placards may be picked up at 946 Noble Carl Dr, Crystal Beach, TX, 77650.

General Beach Access:

Galveston County has requested temporary beach restrictions for public health and safety reasons, from the Texas General Land Office, to allow law enforcement to ensure public safety while also still allowing for beach access for citizens that weekend. Please continue to monitor official Galveston County information channels for further information. Galveston County expects to publicly release this information in the near future!

CAMPING RESTRICTIONS:

Camping will be restricted on all Bolivar Peninsula Beaches from May 14th – May 18th until this event has passed. If not restricted, law enforcement will not be able to properly respond to similar public safety issues as experienced in years past – shootings, homicides, etc. Therefore, camping will be prohibited during this time.

Beach Rules:

• No parking on the Beach within the event area:
• Off Highway Vehicles (ATVs, UTVs, ROVs) are strictly prohibited any state highways or public roadway.
• Golf Carts are prohibited on roadways where speed limits are more then 35mph and must be comply with all other state law regulations.
• No stopping to unloaded trailers:
• No Camping on the beach:
• Mass Gatherings Strictly Prohibited: Texas National Resources Code Section 61.252
• Glass Containers are prohibited: 
• No Littering: 
• Stay Off the Dunes: Protected by law.
• Motorized Vehicles:
  • Driver’s licenses are required for all motorized vehicles.
  • No Open Containers While Operating a Motor Vehicle.
• No Reckless Driving:
• Speed Limit: 15 mph on the beach: (Texas Transportation Code 545.352(b)(5)
• Dogs Must Be Leashed: 
• No Bonfires:

For more information, email jeepweekend@galvestoncountytx.gov.