BEACH PATROL

Code enforcement officers JT Thomas, right, and Ronald Peterson patrol the shore May 2 in Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach. The officers aimed to alert people to sea turtle nesting season as they checked for lighting violations and beach gear in need of removal. For more on the season, turn to page 22. Islander Photo: Kelsey Mako

Bradenton Beach code enforcement officer Ronald Peterson covers a hole May 2 near the 31st Street beach access.

Holmes Beach code compliance officer JT Thomas alerts a beachfront property owner May 2 that they are in violation of the lighting ordinance to protect sea turtles. Lighting visible from the beach must be amber and shielded May-October.

Code officers help children fill in a hole May 2 in Bradenton Beach. Holes in the sand can be hazardous for sea turtles and deter sea turtles from nesting.

Anna Maria Island code officers remove furniture from the beach May 2. Lawn chairs, canopies and other beach gear can be hazardous for sea turtles and deter turtles from nesting.

Code officers use “turtle eye” lenses to check if lighting is safe for sea turtles. Blue lighting in the “turtle eye” is unsafe.