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 along the foreshore, clear dog-friendly and dog free zones, and enhanced protection for the Ricketts Point Marine Sanctuary.

Proposed changes aim to balance off-leash access across Bayside and within the Ricketts Point Marine Sanctuary – protecting sensitive environments while supporting dog owners with clear dog friendly zones and more consistent rules.

Within the Marine Sanctuary, we're proposing to:

Increase off-leash areas in the northern section (between Fourth Street and the Southern end of Beaumaris Yacht Club car park)

• There is no change proposed to the existing 24/7 off-leash zone.
  The current off-leash area between the McGregor Avenue ramp and the accessible (DDA) ramp at the southern end of the Beaumaris Yacht Club car park will remain.
• Restrictions would be eased to the north of the existing 24/7 off-leash beach area between Fourth street and McGregor Avenue, so dogs can be off leash in summer between 7pm and 10am (instead of on-leash between 7.30pm and 10pm) and off leash at all times during winter (instead of on-leash), creating consistency with other Bayside beaches.

Enhance environmental protection in the southern section (between Beaumaris Life Saving Club and the Sea Scouts boat ramp)

• In summer, dogs would be prohibited at all times, removing the current on-leash access between 7:30pm and 10am and removing the current off-leash section between Beaumaris Life Saving Club and Dalgetty Road.
• In winter, dogs would be permitted on-leash at all times.
• Dogs will remain prohibited at all times on the intertidal rock platforms throughout the sanctuary to protect sensitive marine life.

To help everyone enjoy Bayside’s beautiful 17km coastline in the summer, we’re proposing just two dog-free areas: Hampton Beach and the southern section of Ricketts Point Marine Sanctuary. These spaces would offer a peaceful beach experience for those who prefer a dog-free environment. For dog owners, both spots are right next to beaches where dogs are welcome off-leash all day, every day.

Proposed changes will create only two areas along Bayside’s 17km coastline – Hampton Beach and the southern section of Ricketts Point Marine Sanctuary – where dogs will be prohibited at all times during summer. This ensures that community members who prefer dog-free beaches have access to such spaces during the warmer months. Both Hampton Beach and Ricketts Point South are next to 24/7 permanent off-leash dog beaches.

Council will take community feedback into consideration when making a decision on future restrictions at its 19 August 2025 meeting.

To receive updates about this project, select the blue +Subscribe button at the top of the page.