Are dogs allowed on the beach in Walton County?
The short answer is NO, dogs are not allowed on the beach in Walton County. That includes all beaches: Miramar Beach, Seagrove, Seaside, Seacrest, Blue Mountain Beach, Alys Beach, Inlet Beach, and any other beach in Walton County. Dogs are only permitted to be on the beach if you are a full-time resident (6-months or more per year) or a property owner in the county - and obtain a beach permit/access tag. Once issued a permit/access tag, it is valid from August 1 to July 31 and must be renewed each calendar year.
Eligibility Requirements:
Residency: You must be a full-time resident of Walton County (living there for more than six months a year) or a property owner in the county. Unfortunately, visitors and part-time residents are not eligible for a dog beach permit.
Rabies Vaccination Certificate: Your dog must have an up-to-date rabies vaccination, and the owner's name on the certificate must match the name of the property owner or permanent resident listed on the application. If the vaccination is not in your name, additional documentation may be required.
Application Process: You can apply in person at the Walton County Tax Collector’s Office and receive your tag the same day. Feel free to download the application to save time when you arrive :Dog-Beach-Permit-Application You can also apply online and upload all of the required documents: Apply Online
The cost for the application is $40 [at the time this was written]
You should always clean up after your dog, respect the space of others, and always follow the guidelines to enjoy your dog while visiting the beaches of Walton County.
Rules & Regulations for Dogs on the Beach:
Permitted dogs are allowed on Walton County beaches between 3:30 PM and 8:30 AM year-round.
Dogs must be on a leash at all times. In Walton County, Florida, dogs must be on a leash when not on the owner's property. This regulation is part of the Walton County Animal Control Ordinance, which aims to promote the safety and welfare of the citizens.
Ensure that your dog’s permit tag is visible at all times while on the beach.
Failure to abide by the regulations, laws and ordinances can come at a hefty cost as fines are levied by local law enforcement agencies and Code Enforcement.
What about Destin / Okaloosa County Beaches?
No dogs allowed. There are no public beaches that allow dogs on the beach in Destin / Okaloosa County. There is a DOG BEACH in Fort Walton Beach (near Liza Jackson Park) - as well as - a DOG BEACH in Panama City Beach (near Pier Park).