Keeping and Exercising Dogs

Dog and cat owners are responsible for ensuring their animals do not create a nuisance or endanger other animals or people. Dogs and cats are not permitted to roam: if they leave the property they must either be kept on a lead or remain under supervision in off-leash areas provided by council. All dogs and cats must be registered with council.

Maximum number of dogs

Single dwelling – two dogs.
Multiple dwelling – one dog. (Applicant must confirm with the body corporate or management whether animals are allowed on the property.)

Should you wish to keep more than the number of dogs specified above, you need to apply to council for permission by completing the animal licence application form [PDF 87KB].

Off-leash and prohibited areas

All dogs must be kept on a leash when in public areas, unless in a designated off-leash area [PDF 245KB] where they may be exercised without restraint.

The following rules apply when using off-leash areas on the Sunshine Coast:

Dogs must be within close proximity of the owner and be responsive to their commands.
Dogs must not interfere with any other recreational users.
Declared dangerous dogs are prohibited in off-leash areas.
Dog faeces must be removed and disposed of properly.
Dogs are not allowed within children's playground areas or picnic/barbeque areas.

Council has also specified certain areas where all dogs are prohibited due to the sensitivity of the area.

Restricted breeds of dogs

The following breeds of dogs are restricted within the Sunshine Coast area:

American Pit Bull Terrier
Dogo Argentino
Fila Brasileiro
Japanese Tosa.

Note: Any new registrations for persons wanting to register dogs of these breeds will not be accepted.

Fencing requirements

Dog owners are responsible for preventing their dogs from roaming and causing a nuisance. Suitable fenced enclosures are required to contain dogs on properties. The enclosure must be suitably constructed to prevent the animal from escaping.

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