Bay County Invites Locals to Enjoy Pier for Free

Bay County Residents Receive Free Russell-Fields Pier Access During August and September

Local residents can enjoy complimentary spectator admission to the Panama City Beach landmark as part of America’s 250th birthday celebration.

Frank Gotaas

Jul 26, 2026

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Bay County residents will have a new reason to visit Panama City Beach during the final months of summer.

Throughout August and September 2026, residents from anywhere in Bay County will be able to walk onto the Russell-Fields City Pier without paying the usual spectator admission fee. The temporary free-access program was approved by the Panama City Beach City Council during its July 23 meeting.

The promotion is being offered in recognition of America’s 250th birthday and is intended to give local families greater access to one of Panama City Beach’s most recognizable public landmarks.

Free Access Is for Spectators

The waived admission applies only to people visiting the pier as spectators. Residents who plan to fish from the pier will still be required to purchase the appropriate fishing admission.

To receive free spectator access, visitors must present identification showing that they live in Bay County. The benefit is available to all county residents, including those living in Panama City, Lynn Haven, Callaway, Springfield, Mexico Beach, Parker and other Bay County communities, not only residents of Panama City Beach.

Panama City Beach City Councilman Ethan Register said the program gives local residents an opportunity to enjoy the pier during the area’s shoulder season, when summer tourism begins to slow.

The two-month period provides plenty of opportunities for residents to take an evening walk, watch fishermen bring in their catches, photograph a Gulf sunset or simply enjoy the view with visiting friends and family.

A Landmark Beside Pier Park

Russell-Fields City Pier is located at 16201 Front Beach Road, directly across from Pier Park. Stretching over the Gulf, it is a popular destination for fishing, sightseeing, wildlife watching and sunset photography.

The pier is also within walking distance of restaurants, shops and entertainment, making it easy for residents to include a pier visit as part of an afternoon or evening at Pier Park.

Lifeguards are normally stationed near Russell-Fields City Pier through Labor Day weekend, although coverage may be affected by severe weather or unsafe Gulf conditions. Visitors should always check the beach-warning flags before entering the water.

Important Details for Residents

* The free-access program runs during August and September 2026.
* Free admission is for spectators only.
* A valid ID showing Bay County residency is required.
* Fishing fees will still apply.
* The offer covers Russell-Fields City Pier.
* Normal pier rules and weather-related closures remain in effect.

Although Panama City Beach has two major public fishing piers, current reporting on the council’s decision specifically identifies Russell-Fields City Pier as the location included in the August and September promotion. The M.B. Miller County Pier continues to have its regular pier-usage fees. Its standard spectator admission is $3, while fishing admission is generally $6, with discounted rates available for certain visitors.

Bay County residents can separately apply for a free parking permit at the M.B. Miller County Pier. That parking program is ongoing, is connected to the resident’s vehicle tag and is not the same as the temporary free spectator-admission offer at Russell-Fields City Pier.

For local families looking for an affordable outing, the new promotion offers a simple opportunity to slow down, enjoy the Gulf breeze and experience one of Panama City Beach’s most scenic landmarks without an admission charge.

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