Outer Banks Pet Regulations

The beach can be fun and rewarding for both pets and their owners. Each town has their own restrictions pertaining to pets. Please be courteous and clean up after your pet. All pet waste must be collected immediately and deposited in appropriate containers.

Nags Head
Dogs are allowed on the beach year-round as long as they are restrained by a leash not exceeding 10 feet. All pet waste must be properly disposed of by owners.

Kill Devil Hills
Between May 15 and September 15 of each year, no dogs shall be permitted on the public beach between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. unless being used to aid a handicapped person. At all other times, dogs are not permitted on the public beaches except upon a leash and under control of owner. All pet waste must be gathered in appropriate containers. Year-round leash law.

Corolla
Leashes are required in Currituck County, but there are no length requirements.

Duck
Dogs are allowed on the beach unleashed, but as a matter of public safety and courtesy, they should be under the watchful eye and contact of their owner.

Southern Shores
Dogs are not allowed on the beach from May 15 - September 15. Year-round leash law. All pet waste must be collected immediately and deposited in appropriate containers.

Kitty Hawk
Dogs are permitted on public beaches. The owner/handler is responsible for and must remove pet waste and possess a bag/container for waste removal at all times. Dogs must be on a leash not exceeding 6 feet between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. beginning the Friday before Memorial Day until the day after Labor Day. 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 remain within 30 feet of the dog at all times. A leash must be with owner/handler at all times. Violation of any of these rules shall be a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not more than $50.00.

For More Information:

• PetFriendlyOBX.com
• Bringing Your Pet with You
• Local Pet Regulations
• Pet Care on the Beach
• Beach First Aid for Pets
• Pet Friendly Vacation Homes
• Outer Banks Vets & Pet Hospitals

Lost Pet Tips:

1. Don't hesitate. The minute you realize your pet is missing, start looking.
2. Call the local animal shelters and animal control centers.
3. Walk and drive through your neighborhood.
4. If you have no luck after several hours of trying the first 3 steps, move on to the following tips.
5. Call local veterinarians.
6. Call local radio stations.
7. Make lost pet flyers and distribute.
8. Use the local newspapers.
9. Call area animal shelters daily and visit in person every 3 days.
10. Don't give up.