Dogs love the Outer Banks, and we love having them here! Digging in the sand, running along the shore, and playing in the waves are just as exciting for them as they are for you, and some hazards are the same as well.
We want to ensure your vacation is fun and safe for everyone, including those fur babies! So here is some information we wanted to share with our pet parents to ensure we do everything we can to keep them safe while here.
The Outer Banks is known for its dog-friendly beaches, and most allow dogs year-round as long as they are on a leash and picked up after. But each town can change these regulations and differ depending on the season. So we strongly encourage you to check the town you will be 'beaching' in for their specific pet laws. Keep reading for information and links so you and your pet can enjoy time here on the Outer Banks.
Dogs on Beach Rules by Town:
Corolla
Town Hall 252-453-8555 www.co.currituck.nc.us
Dogs are allowed on the beach year-round. All dogs must be kept on a leash while on the beach.
Duck
Town Hall 252-255-1234 www.townofduck.com
Dogs are allowed on the beach year-round as long as they are on a leash and tagged, collared and under the control of the owner at all times.
Southern Shores
Town Hall 252-261-2394 www.southernshores.org
Dogs must be leashed at all times when off the owners property. Dogs are allowed on the beach from May 15th - September 15th, 6pm - 9am. From September 16th - May 14th, dogs are allowed only on a leash.
Kitty Hawk
Town Hall 252-261-3552 www.townofkittyhawk.org
From the Friday before Memorial Day until the day after Labor Day between the hours of 10am & 6pm dogs must be on a leash not to exceed six feet. 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 their owner/handler who must remain within 30 feet of the dog at all times. A leash must be present at all times.
Kill Devil Hills
Town Hall 252-449-5300 www.kdhnc.com
Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, no dogs will be permitted on the public beach between the hours of 9am and 6pm (unless being used to aid a handicapped person). At all other times, dogs shall only be permitted on the public beaches when on a leash and under control of the handler.
Nags Head
Town Hall 252-441-5508 www.townofnagshead.net
Dogs are allowed on the beach at all times as long as they are leashed. Owners must clean up after their dogs.
Beach Realty / Kitty Hawk Rentals Dog Policies:
If a property advertises "Pets allowed" then our general rule is two house-trained dogs are welcome with purchase of the $150 (plus tax) pet fee. To find a home that allows pets, you may use our Advanced Search or you may view All Pet-friendly Homes. Properties permitting dogs will have a fee ($150.00 plus tax unless otherwise noted) for the privilege. Limited to 2 adult house-trained dogs only, unless the home specifies otherwise. No dogs are allowed in pool or hot tub. We do not allow puppies or breeds considered dangerous by insurance companies.
View all Pet-Friendly Rentals
Properties permitting dogs will have a fee ($150.00 plus tax unless otherwise noted) for the privilege. Limited to 2 adult house-trained dogs only. No dogs allowed in pool or hot tub. Units that do not clearly state that pets are allowed DO NOT permit dogs. If one is brought to a property that does not allow dogs or the animal is not claimed in advance, in writing, violation of the NO PET rule will be grounds for immediate eviction without refund. Absolutely no other type of animal but dogs is permitted. Absolutely no puppies or breeds considered dangerous by insurance companies. If a formal complaint is lodged against your dog you will be asked to board your dog for the remainder of your stay or be evicted without refund.
Do you have three dogs (or more)?
Some of our pet-friendly OBX vacation rentals welcome more than two dogs! Additional pet fee may apply. See property description for details.