Dogs on the Beach

Dog Permits

All dogs that live or visit the City must be vaccinated against rabies and have a metal license tag attached to its collar with the name of the licensed veterinarian who provided the vaccine. Dog owners must also have a valid certificate of rabies vaccination readily available at all times.

Residents are encouraged to obtain a dog permit from the Isle of Palms Police Department. Dog permits will be issued annually and are free of charge. Having a dog permit may facilitate the safe return of lost dogs.

When can dogs be on the beach off leash?

Dogs are allowed to be off-leash from:

April 1st through September 14th

5:00 a.m. until 9:00 a.m.

September 15th through March 31st

4:00 p.m. until 10:00 a.m.

Dog owners must have leash in hand, have their dog under voice command and must clean up excrement. At all other times, dogs must be on leash and under complete control, even in the water.

Please follow these rules to make sure that your pet is safe and that you are ticket-free.