Dog parks and beaches

We understand that owners need spaces to let their dogs run and play without a leash. While all dogs must be kept on a leash while outside your property, we have designated off-leash areas at several local parks, reserves and beaches.

Off-leash maps and times

Off-leash areas and restrictions change during summer from 1 November to 31 March. 

For maps and times, please refer to:

• Map - beach access restrictions (PDF 125 KB)
• Map - off-leash park areas (PDF 115 KB)

For a more in-depth description of the boundaries of off-leash areas, the times when the designated areas are off-leash and Melways map references, download the schedule designated areas (PDF 95 KB).

For further information please refer to the signage at our beaches, parks and reserves.

All year restrictions

Dogs and cats are prohibited in the following environmentally sensitive areas all year round:

• Perce White Reserve, Port Melbourne
• West Beach St Kilda (not allowed on environmentally sensitive dune area)

Additionally, if you own a Greyhound, your dog is required to be on-leash even in off-leash areas.

Albert Park Lake

Albert Park Lake Reserve is managed by Parks Victoria, even though it is located in the City of Port Phillip. While the reserve is primarily an on-leash park, there is a good amount of space set aside for exercising your dog off a leash. More information is available at Parks Victoria.

Dog beaches

From 1 April to 31 October, dogs are allowed on all beaches. Between 1 November and 31 March, dog restrictions are in place on our beaches. Dogs are not allowed on the sand unless signed otherwise. Always check the signs before taking your dog on to the beach.

Dogs must always be on a leash on beach pathways and boardwalks.
Penalties apply for failing to adhere to restrictions.

The list below outlines where you can take your dog throughout the year.

Dog litter

Dog owners are expected to play their part in preventing messy moments for the whole community by carrying a bag or similar device and picking up after their pooches. On the spot fines apply to everyone who doesn’t.

Environmentally friendly products including biodegradable doggy poo bag are highly recommended.

Reminder to dog owners

• Dogs may be exercised off-leash in a designated off-leash area provided they are under effective control by their owner. Effective control means:
  • the dog will return to its owner on command
  • the dog does not bother, attack, worry or interfere with other people or animals
  • the owner retains a clear and unobstructed view of the dog
• Dog owners must still always carry a leash.
• Off-leash activities are restricted to specified areas or times in some reserves and beaches. Please read the signs carefully when entering the reserve.
• Dogs must be walked on a lead in all public areas other than those signed as off-leash. This rule doesn't just refer to parks and reserves but to the streets, paths and walkways as well.
• Dogs are also not permitted within five metres of playgrounds, public barbeques or exercise equipment areas.

Patrols and Penalties

Random patrols are conducted during daylight hours throughout the year and people found not complying will be fined. On the spot $185 'Contravening Council Order' fines apply for:

• Dogs wandering at large.
• Not having dogs on leashes when they must be.
• Failing to carry a bag and pick up after your dog.

Nearby areas

For those people living close to the edges of the City of Port Phillip, their closest dog park may not be in our municipality. For:

• The St Kilda Road neighbourhood, your closest off-leash park may be Fawkner Park which is in the City of Melbourne's municipality.
• Those living in neighbourhoods on the edge of Elwood and Ripponlea, Elsternwick Park which is in the City of Bayside could be the closest.

More information

For more information and questions, please contact us.