Smell that? That’s the smell of summer. Sunscreen, sand, salt water, and... wet dog? Follow along to read about how you can have a beach day with your pup while following local regulations.
Isle of Palms
Permits | Dogs who are there must have a permit that displays their vaccines readily available at all times. They should also have a metal tag on the collar that acts as a license to show they have the rabies vaccine. Get your permit for free at the Isle of Palms Police Department at 30 J C Long Blvd.
Play time | Your pup can run wild and free off-leash from 5 to 9 a.m., April 1 to September 14. The times change to 4 p.m. to 10 a.m. starting September 15 until March 31. Be sure to have your leash handy at all times.
Folly Beach
Permits | To get a pet license in this surf-haven, you have to be a Folly Beach resident or must be staying there for more than 30 days. Send your rabies information and completed forms to animaltags@follybeach.gov to apply for a permit.
Play time | Dogs are not allowed on the beach from 10 am to 6 pm from May 1st to Sept. 30th — at all other times they must be leashed.
Sullivan’s Island
Permits | All dogs are required to have a license to be on the island. Licenses are $25 for residents and $50 for non-residents. You can get one by presenting your rabies vaccine, driver’s license, and current address to Town Hall at 2056 Middle St.
Play time | Summer dogs can play from May 1 to September 30 from 5 to 10 a.m. off leash and 6 p.m. to 5 a.m. on leash. In the off-season (October 1 to April 30), pets can be off-leash from 5 a.m. to 12 p.m. and on-leash from 12 p.m. to 5 a.m.
Friendly reminder for all beaches: Clean up after your pooch.
