Dog off-leash areas

Dog beach rules have changed (February, 2026)

Council is rolling out simpler dog rules for Hervey Bay beaches with clearer signs at beach entrances and key landmarks along the foreshore.

The changes aim to make it easier for dog owners to know what to do, while keeping our beaches safe for everyone to enjoy.

Stage 1 includes three new 24 hour off-leash areas which replace the previous timed zones.

Dogs may be off-leash all day in these areas:

  • Scarness - Tooan Tooan Creek to Scarness Jetty
  • Urangan - Margaret Street groyne to Dayman Park (Reef World)
  • Urangan - Moolyyir Creek and Pulgul Creek (until Stage 2 begins)

On-leash areas remain available for people and dogs who prefer them. If a beach area is not signed as off-leash or dog-free, dogs must be on a leash.

Stage 2 is coming later in 2026 (subject to local law changes) and includes new dog-free areas for beachgoers and a seasonal shorebird protection zone.

Please remember: Dogs must remain under effective control at all times and respond reliably to recall. Owners are responsible for their dog’s behaviour around other beach users.

You can view an online map and read more about dog etiquette below. 

Dogs on Beaches Map - Stage 2

 

Dogs on Beaches Map - Stage 2

Interactive Map Dogs on Beaches FAQS(PDF, 3MB)

 

Dog etiquette 101

Council understands the importance of exercising and socialising your dog and has provided several designated off-leash areas where dog owners can safely exercise their animals.

However, despite your dog being the wiggliest, cuddliest, sweetest pup ever, their temperament can’t prevent unexpected accidents.

They can scare someone

A lot of people are terrified of dogs — even your cute pup which ‘wouldn’t hurt a fly’. Be conscious of who your dog is approaching and how they are approaching other animals and people, especially small children.

They can approach the wrong dog

Lots of dogs are aggressive toward other dogs or are leash reactive. If your dog isn’t on a leash, you have lost your most powerful tool to stop a dog fight before it starts.

Overstimulation can lead to undesirable behaviours

You cannot control the outside stimuli, what’s happening around you, such as the appearance of another dog, people, bicycles, traffic, loud noises or wildlife.

Your dog may become distracted by these even with your best attempts to keep them in line.

Consider pausing before you enter the area, assess the area and your dog’s response to such before setting them free to play.

Scoop your dog’s poop

Bring several bags on your walks to be sure you have enough.

Only let your dog greet a stranger if they ask or initiate the interaction

The same rule applies if you see another dog and their owner approaching. Ask first and respect the other’s response.

Always leash your dog on walks

Not everyone is comfortable around dogs. Keep your dog close to you and stay alert to others. Your leash should be short enough to prevent your dog from contacting or jumping on passers-by.

Understand your own capabilities

Some dogs are harder to control than others, especially when excited. If you cannot control the animal, it's best you don’t take it into a public space, especially an off-leash space.

Supervise your dog’s play

Stay close to your dog. Be attentive and be proactive.

Responsibility

Being a dog owner means that you are legally responsible for your dog’s behaviour at all times. Even in off leash areas, it’s important to stop your dog from causing a nuisance or being aggressive towards other dogs. At no time should your dog impede other people’s enjoyment of the park.

Below is a list of current dog off-leash areas.

When attending an off-leash area, you must ensure your:

  • dog is under your control (for example: your dog will return to you when called).
  • dog is not a nuisance to other dogs and their owners.
  • dog's droppings are disposed of in the bins provided.
  • dog is registered with Council, and its vaccinations are up to date.

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