For dog owners in Southeastern North Carolina, October is arguably the most exciting month of the year. It isn't just about the pumpkin spice or the cooling temperatures; it’s about the "Leash Liberation."

During the peak summer season, our furry friends are often restricted to early mornings or late evenings to avoid the heat and the crowds. But as the tourists pack up, the local beaches roll out the welcome mat for our four-legged family members.

However, "off-season" rules are not universal. Crossing a town line can mean the difference between a legal game of fetch and a $100 fine. Here is your definitive guide to the 2025/2026 dog rules for New Hanover, Pender, Onslow, and Brunswick counties.

New Hanover County: All-Day Access Returns

In New Hanover County, the "9:00 AM to 5:00 PM" ban is officially over for the season.

Wrightsville Beach: From October 1st through March 31st, dogs are allowed on the beach strand at any time.
The Catch: They must remain on a leash at all times. No exceptions.

Carolina Beach: Similar to Wrightsville, dogs are allowed on the municipal beach strand at all hours from October 1st to March 31st.
The Catch: Leashes are still mandatory on the main strand.

Freeman Park (The Exception): This is the crown jewel for active dogs. From October 1st to March 31st, dogs are allowed OFF-LEASH in Freeman Park, provided they are under voice command.

Kure Beach: Dogs are allowed on the beach 24/7 from October 1st to March 31st, but must remain leashed.

Pender & Onslow Counties: The "Topsail Split"

Topsail Island is one island with three towns, and they have three very different sets of rules.

Topsail Beach (South End): The most dog-friendly spot on the island. From October 1st through May 14th, dogs are legally allowed OFF-LEASH, provided they are under voice command.

Surf City (Middle): Dogs are allowed on the beach year-round, but they must always be on a leash. There is no "off-leash" season here.

North Topsail Beach (North End/Onslow): Dogs are allowed year-round, but leashes are mandatory (max length 25 feet).

Brunswick County: A Mixed Bag of Freedom

Brunswick County offers some of the most diverse dog rules in the region.

Oak Island: From October 15th to March 15th, dogs are allowed OFF-LEASH from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM in marked locations.

Caswell Beach: Uniquely permissive. Dogs are allowed OFF-LEASH year-round from dawn to 9:00 AM. During the off-season (October 15th – March 15th), they are allowed off-leash all day (sunrise to sunset) as long as they are under control.

Bald Head Island: A true paradise. Dogs are allowed OFF-LEASH year-round. The only restriction is during Turtle Season (May–Nov), when they must be leashed from sunset to sunrise.

Holden Beach, Ocean Isle Beach, & Sunset Beach: The "all-day" restrictions have lifted (meaning you don't have to wait until evening), but leashes are required at all times, even in the dead of winter.
Note: Sunset Beach restricts leash length to 10 feet max.

A "Voice Command" Reality Check

"Voice Command" is a legal term, not just a suggestion. If your dog approaches other beachgoers or other dogs without recall, you can be cited for a leash law violation even in an off-leash zone.

We Know the "Pet-Friendly" Neighborhoods

For many of our clients, a home isn't "the one" unless it works for the whole family—paws included. Whether you need a fenced yard in Hampstead, a mudroom for sandy paws in Southport, or proximity to the off-leash freedom of Freeman Park, we know where to look.

At Aspyre Realty Group, we don't just sell houses; we help you find the lifestyle that fits every member of your pack. If you are looking to buy or sell this season, let’s sit down and discuss what your family (and your dog) really needs.