Helpful Reminders and Notices for Visiting Neah Bay

The Makah Tribe is a separate sovereign. We have a Treaty that confirms our sovereignty and self-determination. Please respect the culture of the Makah Tribe and limit your activities to designated visitor facilities, tribal regulations, and observe our laws.

Marijuana is Not Legal Here

The Makah Tribe is a separate sovereign. We have a Treaty that confirms our sovereignty and self-determination. A big part of that sovereignty is that state laws do not apply to the Tribe and its territory. As a state law, I-502 could not and does not legalize marijuana within the Makah Reservation.

Like Makah law, federal law lists marijuana as a controlled substance and possessing, using, buying and selling it is a federal crime. On the Makah Reservation, every little bit of pot is illegal. Wherever, whenever, however.

No Beachcombing

The ocean shore provides endless opportunities for discovery and investigation, which makes beachcombing very tempting. Resolution No. of the 26-65 of the Makah Tribe strictly restricts beachcombing and the gathering of drift material on the shores of the Makah Indian Reservation by persons other than members of the Makah Tribe and their families.

It is traditional that drift materials cast upon the shores of the Makah Indian Reservation are property of the Makah Tribe. Any person or persons found disobeying this act may be excluded for the Makah Indian Reservation.

Drone and Film Policy

Under development. Please return to this page shortly and we’ll have our drone policy in place. We look forward to welcoming you in person to Neah Bay and the Makah Tribe.

Recreation Permit Required

Don’t forget to purchase a recreation permit. Permits are required for recreational activities such as camping or when visiting trails or beaches. Currently, the pass is $20 per vehicle and is valid for the calendar year. More info: