The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality’s Division of Coastal Management has issued guidance for property owners, organizations, and towns planning to use natural Christmas trees in dune restoration projects.
Natural, undecorated Christmas trees can serve as an alternative to traditional sand fencing, which is typically constructed from wood or synthetic materials and used on beaches or dunes to trap blowing sand. The division advises that these trees should be placed according to the state’s rules for sand fencing, with the exception that they may not be positioned closer to any body of water than the base of the nearest dune.
The guidelines specify that Christmas trees must not obstruct public access to beaches, interfere with recreational activities, block emergency vehicle routes, or be placed on private property without permission. Trees should be installed at an angle of no less than 45 degrees relative to the shoreline and spaced at least seven feet apart. If sand fencing is already present, a minimum distance of seven feet between each tree and fence section must also be maintained. Only single-tree-width rows are permitted.
Additionally, the division clarifies that unvegetated beach berms or recently created “starter dunes” do not qualify as natural dunes; therefore, trees should not be placed at their seaward base or on open beach areas.
To ensure compliance with all applicable regulations for sand fencing, individuals are encouraged to review standards outlined in 15A NCAC 07K .0212. If a proposed arrangement does not meet these criteria, applicants should submit a CAMA Minor Permit application for review. For further information or clarification before placing trees, contact with local CAMA permitting authorities or appropriate DCM district offices is recommended.
For recycling program compliance in specific neighborhoods, residents are advised to consult their local government office regarding proper disposal methods for natural Christmas trees.
The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) manages environmental quality and natural resources across the state through specialized divisions such as air and water resources. The agency provides regulatory oversight in areas including waste management and coastal protection while supporting local stewardship efforts through its network of regional offices (official website). DEQ also promotes public education and community awareness initiatives related to environmental compliance (official website). Established in 2015 after restructuring from its predecessor agency (official website), DEQ delivers science-based stewardship aimed at benefiting all North Carolinians (official website).
