Plan creates better harmony between people and pets
Improved community safety, carefully considered changes to off-leash areas and enhanced protection for environmentally sensitive zones are the key elements of the new Sunshine Coast Dog Exercise Area Regional Plan.
Two small dogs enjoying the off leash beach at Stumers Beach
Sunshine Coast Council’s Environment and Liveability Portfolio Maria Suarez said Council was appreciative of the valuable community feedback that played a major role in developing the final plan, adopted at Council’s December 11 Ordinary Meeting.
”The plan is designed to balance protection of our sensitive coastal environments with maintaining generous access for exercising dogs in outdoor spaces, in a region with 54,000 registered dogs,” Cr Suarez said.
“It will deliver a more harmonious approach to how dog owners and non-dog owners can share our parks, beaches and environment reserves, and includes a vision for 22 new dog parks over the next 20 years.
“The changes are set to be introduced in 2026.’’
So, what’s changing?
Stumers Creek
At Stumers Creek, Coolum Beach, community input highlighted the importance of maintaining the site’s character, so only minor changes will occur. Visitors arriving by car or walking their pets past the carpark must keep dogs on-leash until they are at least 10 metres beachside of the carpark. This measure improves safety for pedestrians and motorists. The existing off-leash zone, which extends approximately three kilometres north and south of the creek, will remain unchanged.
Currimundi Beach
At popular Currimundi Beach, to improve harmony and safety near the busy carpark, shops, picnic areas, and swimming zone, dogs will no longer be permitted to cross the mouth of Currimundi Lake between Beach Access 253 and 254. There is no change to the existing off-leash area north of the lake (beach access 253). South of the lake, the current 1.25 kilometre off-leash area will continue, stretching to just north of Ann Street (approximately 50 metres north of Beach Access 262). A slight adjustment introduces an additional 50 metre buffer adjoining the Dicky Beach Bathing Reserve to protect the patrolled swimming area.
Protection for precious species
Rocky headlands
A restricted dog area at Point Perry, Point Arkwright, Point Cartwright, Moffat Headland and Caloundra Headland, has been established.
These zones are an important breeding, foraging and nursery ground for marine plants, fish, reptiles, birds and other wildlife and keeping dogs away reduces stress on these fragile habitats and helps protect them.
North shore
At Maroochy North Shore, a seasonal closure of 500m of beach on the southern spit area will be implemented from October to April, to safeguard threatened migratory shorebird high-value roosting areas. A new off-leash area of 670m will be provided at Mudjimba South to offset the seasonal closure at North Shore.
Environment reserves
In many environment reserves, dogs will still be welcome on-leash. Dogs will no longer be allowed in some reserves with very high conservation values. This is to protect our sensitive plants and wildlife from disease and habitat loss.
Sports fields
On sports fields, dogs will need to be kept off active playing surfaces but can still use common areas while on a leash. A permit process will continue for organised dog events.
To see how the plan affects local parks, beaches, and reserves, use the mapping tool to view exactly where dog exercise areas are changing across the Sunshine Coast.
Visit the website to view the tool and explore the existing dog-friendly spaces and those that are coming soon.
Why this plan matters
Councillor Suarez said the plan responded to the region’s growing population and reflected the diverse values of the community.
“There is no doubt we love our pets and outdoor spaces and projections are we will have 80,000 registered dogs by 2046, so planning is very important,’’ Cr Suarez said.
Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli said the blueprint was about shaping a network of dog exercise areas across the entire Sunshine Coast now and into the future.
“Whether that’s parks, beaches, sports fields, pathways or environment reserves, all have a significant role to play,” Mayor Natoli said.
“Finding the right balance is at the heart of this plan – ensuring that both dog owners and non-dog owners have safe, welcoming places to enjoy, while also preserving the natural beauty that makes our region special.”
Community feedback on dog plan
Councillor Suarez said the plan incorporated extensive input from local dog owners and non-dog owners, community groups, independent experts and Traditional Owners.
“We’ve listened to local voices, drawn on expert advice and used data and research to ensure provision of these shared spaces reflect the needs and values of our whole community.”
Community feedback prioritised expanding and diversifying off-leash areas, strengthening education and awareness programs, as well as protecting the environment and community values.
These were the main drivers shaping the final recommendations of the plan alongside risk assessments and expert advice.
View community engagement results on Council’s Have your Say page.
Generous dog access for Sunshine Coast
Councillor Suarez said the new plan balanced the importance of protecting sensitive coastal environments while maintaining generous dog access.
“Our region is truly unique, it has 34 km of dog-friendly coastline, including 16km of off-leash and 17 km of on-leash access – which is the largest in South East Queensland,” Cr Suarez said.
“And 1,600 km of on-leash pathways offering residents a wide range of options for safe and enjoyable outings with their pets.
"Our beaches and foreshores are some of the most loved spaces on the Sunshine Coast and this plan ensures they remain safe and enjoyable for everyone.
"We’ve also taken steps to protect sensitive environmental areas, so future generations can enjoy our unique wildlife and natural landscapes.”
"I want to thank our community for their feedback and their valued contributions that have helped shape this plan.”
dogs and owners at dog exercise area park Buderim
dog at dog exercise area park, Palmwoods
dogs and owners at sports fields with dogs on leash people playing soccer
Dog and owners at beach playing on sand
Next steps
Council will begin delivering the action plan in stages, subject to funding and annual budget processes.
Before any changes to dog access can go ahead, the local laws need to be updated. This will happen in 2026, and the community will be kept updated throughout the process.
What the plan delivers
- Safer shared spaces.
- Access to dog-friendly spaces close to home.
- Responsible dog ownership education.
- Support community wellbeing through social interactions and exercise
- Protection of environmental and cultural values.
- Efficient use of Council resources.
Learn more
Visit Council’s Have your Say page at haveyoursay.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au to view the community engagement findings and visit Council’s website to view the plan.
