Dog owners in the north-west are facing changes to beach access, with two off-leash areas set to become dog-free zones under a draft Central Coast Council policy.
Johnsons Beach and the western end of West Ulverstone Beach would both ban dogs entirely under the proposal, while the eastern end of Buttons Creek Beach would become an off-leash area.
The draft Dog Management Policy 2025 also sets out a detailed code of responsible ownership, including an explicit ban on tethering dogs to bicycles and broader definitions of nuisance behaviour.
Council has opened a three-week consultation period running until October 12 and is inviting residents to share their views through an interactive online map.
Director of strategic growth Daryl Connelly said the policy aimed to strike a balance in how public spaces are shared.
“Dogs are an important part of many households and this policy is about making sure everyone in our community can enjoy our shared spaces safely and fairly,” he said.
“As we look at updating exercise areas and management practices, we want to hear from dog owners and non-dog owners alike, so the final policy reflects the right balance.”
The proposed changes would see Preservation Bay Beach and Leith Beach designated as on-leash and off-leash areas respectively for the first time.
The shared pathway from Sulphur Creek to Leith would stay on-leash only and the dedicated dog parks at Ulverstone and Penguin would keep their off-leash status.
The policy review, required under the Dog Control Act 2000, also outlines clearer complaints processes and formalises after-hours services for collecting dogs found roaming or involved in attacks.
Other provisions include breed suitability assessments, pro-rata refunds on registration fees after a pet’s death and stronger guidance on health care and training.
The final policy will go to councillors once the consultation period ends.
