Suffolk County Parks: Free Green Key and Parking for Disabled Veterans, Half Price for Veterans

Fees at Suffolk County parks are set in Suffolk County Code 948-26, last amended by Resolution 847-2024, with the veteran rules in 948-27, 948-28 and 948-30. Disabled veterans. Section 948-28 bars the Parks Department from charging a Suffolk resident veteran with a service-connected disability for the use of County parks, including the Green Key card, but not golf. In the fee schedule that means a free Green Key (normally $30 for three years), free parking every day at parks with and without lifeguards, free family camping and amenity fees in and out of season, and a free outer beach recreational vehicle permit (normally $100). The Parks Department asks for a VA identification card stating "service connected" and proof of Suffolk residence. The ordinance states no minimum rating. Other veterans. A resident veteran gets the discounted Green Key at $15, free parking on weekdays (not holidays), camping at $9 a night in season instead of $18, the outer beach permit at $50, and golf at $22 on weekdays instead of $33, with lower twilight and nine-hole rates. Proof is a DD-214 or a driver's licence with the veteran designation. Section 948-27 also waives park entrance fees for every resident veteran on Memorial Day weekend, Friday through Monday, on a VA identification card and proof of residence. Active duty families. Section 948-30 waives daily park fees, not golf, for the spouse and children under 18 of a resident service member who is deployed or mobilized, and for the member, renewed each calendar year with the orders. Where to buy the Green Key. First cards must be bought in person, at Blydenburgh, Cathedral Pines, Indian Island, Sears Bellows, Smith Point, West Hills or the West Sayville Parks Operations Office, and in season at several golf courses and beaches. Bring a REAL ID or Enhanced licence with a Suffolk address, or two proofs of residence. Reserved parking. Suffolk County Code 639-39 reserves two spaces for veterans at each County park and facility with a lot of 30 or more spaces; see the entry on the County veteran ID card.