Last night there was an urgency motion to address the recission motion on this matter. The item was defeated and the extension to the Mona Vale Beach (south) dog off-leash trial will proceed.
Northern Beaches Council has extended the Mona Vale Beach (south) dog off-leash area trial for a further 12 months, until 13 October 2027. The trial commenced on 14 October 2025 and was due to conclude on 13 October 2026. Council sought community feedback on the extension with the majority of the community supportive of the extension of the trial.
“An extension will allow the trial to continue while Council completes an evaluation of the initial 12-month trial period, avoiding disruption to the community that would result from pausing the trial,” Council stated in a media release. The existing trial arrangements will remain unchanged, including the designated trial area and current time restrictions.
Council will also remain responsive to the risks posed by H5 bird flu which may require operational closures and other measures as we continue to monitor the impact across the Northern Beaches.
Northern Beaches Mayor Sue Heins said extending the trial ensures the community can continue to enjoy using this dog off-leash area while the evaluation is underway.
“For many residents, spending time outdoors with their dog is one of life’s simple pleasures. The trial area provides a valuable space for people and their dogs to enjoy the physical and mental wellbeing benefits of walking, exercise and spending time along our beautiful coastline.
“The trial is subject to strict controls that help minimise impacts on the surrounding environment and other beach users, while ensuring Mona Vale Beach is returned to the public for the majority of each day. This balanced approach allows dog owners to enjoy the beach while maintaining access for the broader community.”
“Over 560 people provided feedback on the proposed trial extension, with the majority supportive of continuing the trial. The extension would allow continued community use of the beach for off-leash dog access, subject to the existing trial conditions, while Council completes the evaluation of the initial 12-month trial period and reports the outcomes to Council.” Mayor Heins said.
The Mona Vale Beach (south) off-leash trial area is currently the only Council-managed dog off-leash area on an ocean beach, other than limited access to North Curl Curl Lagoon.
Dogs are permitted off-leash during the trial period in the trial area at the following times and days:
- 5.30am – 10am and 5pm – 9pm, Monday to Sunday (AEDT – Australian Eastern Daylight saving Time)
- 6am – 10am and 4pm – 7pm, Monday to Sunday (AEST – Australian Eastern Standard Time)
At all other times during the trial period, dogs are prohibited in the trial area.
Dogs remain prohibited at all times on Mona Vale Beach outside of the trial area.
Any dog related incidents can be reported on the NB Council online form. Urgent or dangerous matters should be reported immediately (within 24 hours of the incident) directly to the Rangers by calling 1300 434 434 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week).
Dog owner etiquette
When bringing your dog/s to the off-leash trial area it is important to remember:
- you must clean up after your dog
- you must observe your dog at all times and ensure it is not rushing at, or harassing other people or dogs
- a person cannot have more than 4 dogs with them
- to be mindful of other people who are also using enjoying the area.
Information about the trial is available on Council’s website.
