Gulf Shores, Ala. — (OBA) — The Gulf Shores Police Department released details on its Hurricane Decal program. Police Chief Dan Netemeyer explained the system for property owners. These decals are crucial for public safety and convenience. They provide residents with two significant benefits.

The primary purpose is for post-hurricane re-entry. The decal ensures property owners can access their homes and businesses after an evacuation is lifted. A secondary benefit is also included for residents. The decal allows property owners to park for free at public beach access points in Gulf Shores.

New decals are distributed to all property owners by mail. This systematic city-wide distribution occurs every two years to ensure all passes are current.

Residents who do not get a decal by mail can get one in person. The city has established two convenient locations for this purpose. The main pickup location is Gulf Shores City Hall. It is located at 1905 West 1st Street and is open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. A second option is the Gulf Shores City Store at 1821 AL-59. It offers extended hours on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. for convenience.

To receive a decal, you must provide proper identification. Residents are required to present a valid and current driver's license. You must also show proof of property ownership. Accepted documents include a deed, a recent utility bill, or a tax bill with a Gulf Shores address.

Importantly, the vehicle itself must be present. Staff will affix the decal directly to the vehicle at the time it is issued to the resident. Officials stress the decal must be permanently affixed. The correct placement is on the lower driver-side corner of the vehicle's front windshield. Chief Netemeyer warned against temporary methods. Laminating a decal or taping it to the windshield is prohibited under a formal City Ordinance.

The decals feature different colors and numbers. These are not random; they represent the specific geographic area or zone where the property is located. This color-coded system helps manage re-entry in an orderly fashion. It allows officials to open zones in phases depending on safety conditions after a storm.

To find your property's specific zone, consult a map. The city's Emergency Evacuation Map is available below and online at the City of Gulf Shores website.

Residents can also get help over the phone, 251-968-2425.