Permits for use of the Sulby Claddagh campsite can be purchased online from today.
 
Campers will pay a ?15 fee for a permit from this year, a measure agreed in Tynwald this month.
 
A permit will allow camping at Sulby Claddagh over the whole summer season, which runs from 1st May to 30th September.
 
A maximum stay of 14 days at a time will still apply.
 
People are encouraged to apply and pay for a permit online via www.gov.im/camping but can also apply in person or by post to: Sulby Claddagh Camping Permit, Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture, Thie Slieau Whallian, St John’s, IM4 3AS.  Cheques should be made payable to the Isle of Man Government.
 
Permits cannot be purchased at the campsite.
 
The penalty for camping without a permit will be a fine of up to ?2,500.
 
Zac Hall MHK, Member of the Department with responsibility for Forestry, Amenity and Lands, said: “Since the camping permit system was introduced at the Claddagh four years ago there have been few problems associated with the site.  However, we receive occasional criticism over camping units being left unoccupied for days on end. 
 
“This year, the Department will monitor the site more closely and may revoke permits for campers who leave their campervans, caravans or tents unoccupied.”