Saturday, April 19, 2025

Seasonal restrictions for bringing dogs to Carolina Beach in effect

Looking to take your pets to the beach? Check here first to know which area beaches are pro-pooch (Port City Daily/File)
Looking to take your pets to the beach? Make sure you know the hours and times allowed. (Port City Daily/File)

CAROLINA BEACH — Summertime is calling for longer strolls along the shore and boardwalk in Carolina Beach. Before bringing along your furry pal, make sure to know the hours of when dogs can lawfully join those walks.

Seasonal changes went into effect Friday, Apr. 1. Anyone in violation of the rules could face a $100 fine or citation. More information can be found here

Municipal Beach Strand

Dogs are allowed on the beach Apr. 1 through Sept. 30, before 9 a.m. and after 5 p.m.

Dogs are NOT allowed on the beach 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Dogs must always remain on a leash.

Freeman Park

Dogs are allowed in Freeman Park at all hours.

Dogs must always remain on a lease, Apr. 1 through Sept. 30.

Boardwalk/Boardwalk Business District

Dogs are never allowed on the boardwalk nor in the boardwalk business district — on sidewalks, walkways, or public property east of Canal Drive from the north side of Harper Avenue (Hampton Inn location), up to and including Cape Fear Boulevard (Gazebo area).  

While walking a dog in Carolina Beach, owners must always carry a plastic or paper container to clean up dog waste and dispose of in an appropriate container.


Have tips or comments? Email info@portcitydaily.com

Shea Carver
Shea Carver
Shea Carver is the editor in chief at Port City Daily. A UNCW alumna, Shea worked in the print media business in Wilmington for 22 years before joining the PCD team in October 2020. She specializes in arts coverage — music, film, literature, theatre — the dining scene, and can often be tapped on where to go, what to do and who to see in Wilmington. When she isn’t hanging with her pup, Shadow Wolf, tending the garden or spinning vinyl, she’s attending concerts and live theater.

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