Answer
Never—dunes, escarpments, and fenced nesting areas are protected. Shelling stays on open sand the tide already sorted. Fines and erosion damage exceed any jackpot find.
Sources: Town of Ocean City · Ocean City Beach Patrol
Editorial visitor guidance for Ocean City, Maryland. Confirm current Town of Ocean City, Maryland DNR, NPS Assateague, and NWS rules when regulations or safety apply.
