Off-leash dog trial to proceed on Mona Vale Beach
Dogs will be permitted on Mona Vale Beach (South) for a 12-month off-leash dog trial, following a tense council meeting on 19 August.
The trial, which will begin 14 October, follows an environmental assessment and community consultation where the feedback was overwhelmingly supportive of an off-leash area for responsible pet access to the beach. Council voted 10 in favour and four against for the trial, first mooted several years ago.
Mayor Sue Heins said that the trial represented a significant step in providing more quality recreational opportunities for local dog owners. “We are committed to creating welcoming spaces for all residents while protecting our beautiful beaches and local environment. This trial is about finding the right balance through clear guidelines, strong safeguards, and ongoing monitoring,” Mayor Heins said.
To support the trial, council will implement new and enhanced signage detailing permitted times, safety protocols and responsible etiquette. Dog waste bag dispensers will be installed to help keep the area clean and protect the natural environment. New fencing will ensure dogs remain within designated boundaries and away from sensitive dunes and vegetation, and council rangers will regularly monitor the trial area to ensure compliance.
The trial, for the southern end of Mona Vale Beach will run from 5.30am to 10am and from 5pm to 9pm daily during daylight savings periods. While during standard time hours, will be 6am to 10am and 4pm to 7pm daily. Dogs are not permitted in the trial area outside these times. Dogs remain prohibited on Mona Vale Beach outside the trial area.
Throughout the trial, council will collect data on compliance with results reported to council at the end of the trial to guide future decisions and investigations regarding ongoing off-leash provisions.
Greens councillors Miranda Korzy, Bonnie Harvey and Ethan Hrnjak, and Independent Candy Bingham opposed the trial, raising concerns for wildlife, dog obedience and a shortage of rangers to monitor for compliance. It was confirmed that ranger will be checking the area once a week as per usual.
“This is an opportunity for our community to demonstrate how much we value and can share our open spaces responsibly. We will be closely monitoring the trial both through on-site observations and observations of the community,” Mayor Heins said.
Further information, including a map of the trial area and details of the adopted plan of management, will be published on the council website.