Updated Dog Rules Implemented Across Sunshine Coast Effective July 2026

Under the new regulations, certain beaches and reserves will no longer allow dogs. Specific on-leash and off-leash rules will be enforced in various areas, and dogs will be prohibited from sports fields altogether. Additionally, seasonal and time-based restrictions will apply at select locations.

Aiming to enhance safety and protect sensitive environments, these changes will help create enjoyable spaces for both residents and visitors. Key updates include:

- Dogs will be subject to new on-leash, off-leash, and prohibited area guidelines.

- Access to certain locations, particularly environmentally sensitive areas and specific beaches, will be restricted.

- All sports fields will remain off-limits to dogs.

- Vast on-leash pathways are still available, totaling over 1,600 kilometers.

For a detailed overview of the new dog regulations, residents can access Council’s live mapping site at pets.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au. Signage indicating the areas affected by these changes is being updated progressively across the region.

Specific dog access rules for popular areas include:

- **Coolum Beach**: Dogs must remain leashed until they are 10 meters from the car park. Off-leash access spans approximately 3 kilometers north and south of Stumers Creek.

- **Currimundi Beach**: Dogs are prohibited from crossing Currimundi Lake's mouth, while the existing off-leash area remains unchanged.

- **Maroochy North Shore**: Dogs can roam off-leash year-round between Beach Access 127 and 130, with a seasonal closure from October to April for a specific beach section.

- **Point Perry** and **Point Cartwright**: Dogs are banned from rocky foreshore areas to protect wildlife habitats.

- **Caloundra Headland**: Dogs are not permitted between Beach Access 281 and 283, including rocky foreshore areas.

New rules will also be enforced in environment reserves. In many cases, dogs will still be allowed on-leash on designated trails, but access will be restricted in certain high-conservation areas.

Penalties may be imposed for non-compliance with these regulations, including fines for dogs off-leash in on-leash areas or being in prohibited spaces.

The changes reflect community feedback and aim to balance the needs of dog owners with environmental protection and public safety across the growing Sunshine Coast area.