We're reviewing dog access rules across all local beaches, including Ricketts Point Marine Sanctuary, as part of Bayside's Domestic Animal Management Plan. The aim of this review is to strike the right balance between fun on the sand for all beachgoers, while protecting sensitive environments and ensuring public safety.
Overall, off-leash access across Bayside's foreshore is proposed to be increased, with key changes including:
- 30-minute earlier off-leash time in summer (7pm)
- No change to the 3 permanent 24/7 dog off-leash beaches
- More consistent rules across Bayside beaches
- Creating clear zones in Ricketts Point Marine Sanctuary, with expanded off-leash access in the north and stricter restrictions in the south.
We've published an interactive map, displaying the current and proposed restrictions, to make it clear and easy to see what's proposed at the beaches you visit.
We've listened to feedback from more than 2,000 community members to create these proposed restrictions, responding to calls for longer times for beach access for dogs in summer, more consistent restrictions across beaches, clear dog-friendly and dog free zones, and enhanced protection for the Ricketts Point Marine Sanctuary.
Council will consider the proposed revised restrictions at its 19 August 2025 meeting. To receive updates about this project, visit our our Have Your Say project page and select the blue +Subscribe button at the top of the page.
