It has now been made mandatory that all residents, citizens and belongers provide a valid form of identification to gain free entry into the Baths and the Devil’s Bay National Parks.
This is according to the National Parks Trust (NPT) of the Virgin Islands which said in a recent media release that the stipulation came into effect on Thursday June 3.
Producing a valid identification for entry of the two parks has been the law since 2008, however due to continuous neglect of that law from residents, citizens and belongers, it is now being fully enforced.
“In accordance with the National Parks Trust Regulations (2008), Sec. 5.4 and 5.5. residents, citizens and belongers of the British Virgin Islands must present a valid BVI Driver’s Licence or NHI Member I.D. card to receive free entry granted to such persons at The Baths and Devil’s National Parks,” the Trust stated.
It also warned individuals that a failure to adhere to the new requirement will lead to persons having to pay the usual tourist fee.
“Where a person fails to provide such proof, the National Parks Trust shall be entitled to charge the prescribed entry fee of three dollars ($3.00 US Dollars),” the Trust added.
Persons can be fined up to $5000
The National Parks Trust further warned that persons who fail to provide a valid form of identification and opt not to pay the $3 dollar entry fee can be fined up to $5000 or face possible prison time.
“Any person who enters The Baths and Devil’s Bay National Parks without paying the relevant fee commits an offence and is liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding five thousand US dollars ($5.000,00) or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months, or both,” the Trust warned.