OBX in the Off-Season is Fido's Favorite!

Labor Day to Memorial Day is considered the off-season on the Outer Banks. This is the perfect time to bring the furry family members to the beach. Some of the beach laws are more relaxed this time of year giving your pooch more freedom for beaching it.

BEACH LAWS BY TOWN
Corolla: Leashes are required however, there are no length requirements.

Duck: Dogs may play unleashed on the beach, although they must be under the watchful eye and control of a guardian. Dogs are allowed on Duck’s beach year-round.

Southern Shores: Dogs are only allowed on the beach between the hours of 6:00 p.m-9:00 a.m. from May 15th to September 15. Dogs must be on a leash at all times when off personal property.

Kitty Hawk: Dogs are permitted on public beaches. From the Friday before Memorial Day until the day after Labor Day between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. dogs must be on a leash not exceeding 6 feet. At all other times during the year, dogs must be restrained on a leash retractable to 12 feet.  Dogs may be taken off the leash only if they will not disturb other people on the beach.  Unleashed dogs must be controlled by the handler, who must always remain within 30 feet of the dog. A leash must be always with owner/handler.

Kill Devil Hills: Dogs are not permitted on the beach between May 15 and September 15, from 9am to 6pm unless they are a service animal. Dogs are otherwise permitted on the beach, controlled by a handler with a leash.
 
Nags Head: Dogs are allowed on the beach year-round as long as they are restrained by a leash not exceeding 10 feet, held by a person who is physically able to control the animal.

Cape Hatteras National Seashore: Dogs are welcome at Cape Hatteras National Seashore. Your pet must be on a 6’ leash at all times and pets are prohibited within any resource closure.

IMPORTANT REMINDERS

• Bring plastic bags for feces.  
• All dogs (tourist and local) out on any public property must display a current rabies tag.  
• Bring fresh water for your dog. Too much salt water can make them sick.
• Bring a leash even if you are on an unleashed beach.  
• Be careful of sand spurs.  
• Fleas and ticks are present on the beaches. Be sure to apply your pet's medication in time for your trip.  
• Watch for riptides and strong currents. They may be too much for your dog.