The Sunshine Coast is a great place to own a pet, as we have many parks and
beaches for our four-legged mates to run around on, but the council enforces rules
on how to exercise your dogs and where you can do it. If you want to take your dogs
for a walk, they must be on a leash at all times in public spaces, unless you are in a
designated off-leash area. Here are some rules:
Any dog poo must be removed and disposed of properly, and in fact you have
to carry a bag with you when you exercise – the council can fine you $227 if
you walk your dog without a bag.
Dogs must stay fairly close to owners and obey their commands.
Dogs aren’t allowed to interfere with other people and aren’t allowed on
children’s playgrounds or picnic areas.
Declared dangerous dogs are prohibited from off-leash areas.
You’ll notice signs around parks and beaches that regulate dogs’ activities, but if you
can’t see a sign assume that you’re in an on-leash area. If your dog is off leash in an
on-leash area, you could be fined $227.
So where can you go? Popular spots include beaches such as Currimundi, Coolum,
Moffat, Shelley, Town of Seaside and Wurtulla, and parks include Elizabeth Daniels
Park in Buderim, Currimundi Park, Maleny and Minyama parks, Chancellor Village
and Warana park. Many areas are off-leash only at certain times of the day so be
sure to check the signs and follow the rules.
For a comprehensive list of off-leash areas on the Sunshine Coast, head to
www.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au, click on ‘Community’ then ‘Animals and Pets’ and
Follow the link to ‘Dog Parks and Off-leash Areas’.
Happy exercising!
