Noosa Council has installed new signage along the eastern beaches to remind residents and visitors that dogs are not allowed in certain areas.
Acting Local Laws Manager Clint Irwin said the extra signage, between Sunshine Beach and Peregian Beach, makes it easier for residents to better understand where dogs are and aren't allowed.
"We have over six kilometres of beautiful beaches between Sunshine Beach and Peregian Beach where dogs can be exercised on and off leash, but outside these areas, beachgoers have a right to enjoy the beach free of dogs," Mr Irwin said.
The new 'dogs prohibited' signs build on Council's education efforts, which include ATV beach patrols introduced after the Queensland Government increased the fines for failing to keep a dog under effective control to $834.
Local resident Geoff Mallinson, who called for more signage after a dog attack last year, welcomed the move.
"I'm pleased to see action being taken to rein in irresponsible dog owners," Mr Mallinson said.
Noosa has nearly 10,000 registered dogs in the shire and 103 dog attacks were reported to Council in 2025.
Mr Irwin said while existing beach signs already show where dogs are allowed, the additional signs will make it even clearer in prohibited areas.
"It's every dog owner's responsibility to know the rules, but these new signs respond to community calls for better education," he said.
There are 12 sites across the shire which are off-leash areas.
Acting Mayor Brian Stockwell (pictured, with Council Local Laws officers) thanked Mr Mallinson for raising the issue in a deputation to Council.
"We have proactively addressed the request and provided a good outcome for the community," Cr Stockwell said.
"These changes, along with increased patrols, will hopefully encourage those few who flout the rules to do the right thing."
Mr Irwin warned that repeat offenders can expect hefty fines.
"Patrols were conducted between Sunshine Beach and Peregian Beach over the Christmas-new year period, and we are receiving positive feedback from our community, so the patrols will certainly continue," he said.
"We've spent months educating dog owners and directing them to legal off-leash areas. Now, those who ignore the rules risk a fine," he said.
To find out where dogs are allowed on Noosa beaches, visit the website.
Acting Mayor Brian Stockwell discusses the new signage:
Deputy-Mayor-Brian-Stockwell-Dog-signage.mp3
