Facility Rules and Policies

There are a few simple rules you can follow to help protect habitat and ensure that the San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge remains a safe place for both wildlife and people.

Rules and Regulations

These rules and regulations apply to both units of San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge:

Brown puppy with harness and leash sits on a small boulder surrounded by small yellow flowers.
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  • Dogs
    Dogs are not allowed on the Sweetwater Marsh Unit. Leashed dogs are permitted on the Bayshore Bikeway and other public trails in the South San Diego Bay Unit.
  • Prohibited Activities
    • Camping, open fires, and fireworks
    • Hunting
    • Swimming, personal watercraft (jet skis), and water skiing
    • Launching, landing, or disturbing wildlife with aircraft (including drones), as stated in 50 CFR 27.34/27.51
    • Horses, ATVs, motorcycles, or dirt bikes on bike trails or refuge lands
    • Disturbing or collecting plants or animals
    • Searching for or collecting artifacts
  • Noise and Litter
    The refuge is a quiet place to enjoy nature. Please leave fireworks, loud radios, and other sound equipment at home.
    Take all litter with you.
Permits

Any activity conducted off-trail within the San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge is prohibited unless approved by the Refuge Manager. To request permission for scientific research or other off-trail activities, please call (619) 221-3473.