Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does that Ordinance actually say?

A: You can read the text of Ordinance 20-113 here.

Q: What about the existing "Dog Beaches?"

A: We believe that the smaller areas that permit dogs are great, and those involved made amazing progress to get the pilot programs established. However, we believe that the success of those pilot programs should result in county-side common sense regulations, not limited to a tiny geographic location. 

Q: Does this mean dogs will be running loose on the beach? 

A: No. Repealing Ordinance 20-113 only removes the blanket ban on dogs. All other county laws—including Section 14-37, which requires dogs to be on a leash in public places—will remain in full effect.

Q: What about the mess? Who will clean up after the dogs? 

A: Owners are responsible. Existing sanitation laws require pet owners to remove waste immediately. In fact, many successful "pilot" programs in Ormond Beach and Daytona show that dog owners often leave the beach cleaner than they found it by picking up extra litter while they walk.

Q: Will this affect sea turtle nesting? 

A: Not at all. We are proposing a move to a "responsible access" model. This means continuing to respect all federal and state laws regarding wildlife. Dogs must stay on leashes and away from marked nesting zones, just like humans do.

Q: Why change the law now? 

A: Other Florida counties have successfully allowed dogs for years. It boosts local tourism, improves the quality of life for residents, and treats our pets like the family members they are.