Bald Head Island is a very dog-friendly place. You see dogs everywhere on the Island – riding in golf carts, walking along the wynds or beach strand, at the ferry landing, or waiting at the post office while their owners are checking their mail. The following information addresses the Village’s laws regarding dogs and provides a few tips for first-timers, Islanders, guests, and visitors.

Village Laws Regarding Dogs

Restraint is mandatory.  Village Ordinance Section 4-521 mandates that all dogs must be restrained at all times. Unrestrained dogs are prohibited, whether due to the owner’s intentional act or omission. Restraint is defined as being under the immediate control of its owner within the boundaries of the owner’s private property or property where they are authorized to keep the animal or physically confined within a vehicle.

Leashing on Beaches During Turtle Season: From May 1st to November 15th, between sunset and sunrise, all dogs on any beach must be physically restrained by a leash no longer than ten feet. The owner or custodian must hold the other end of the leash and be physically capable of controlling the dog (Village Ordinance Section 4-521).

Feces Removal and Disposal: Owners are legally obligated (Village Ordinance Section 4-521) to immediately remove and properly dispose of dog (and cat) feces deposited on public property (including the beach) or private property without the owner’s consent.

The Village provides “doggie bag dispensers” at beach accesses and waste receptacles for disposal. Disposing of dog waste in public waste receptacles or regular household waste receptacles is recommended. While BHI has no restrictions on flushing dog feces in the sewer system, using dog waste in compost for consumable vegetation is discouraged due to potential parasites and bacteria.

Penalties for Violations: Violations of the dog ordinances can result in a civil fine of $50 or a Class 3 misdemeanor with a fine of up to $500.

Excessive Barking: The Village’s noise ordinance (Sec. 16-132 – 133) prohibits unreasonably loud and disturbing noise, which includes the keeping of any animal, including but not limited to a bird or dog, which makes frequent or long continuing sounds, in a manner that is likely to disturb persons in the vicinity outside the structure or property where the animal sounds are generated. Factors like volume, duration, time, and location are considered when determining a violation. Excessive barking should be reported to the Department of Public Safety by calling 911.

Dangerous Dogs: The Village has ordinances addressing dangerous dogs (Sec. 4-121-126). Any incidents involving a dog deemed dangerous, potentially dangerous, or of unknown status should be reported to the Department of Public Safety by calling 911 for investigation. It is important to report all incidents with a dog that has been deemed dangerous, potentially dangerous, or when the status is unknown to the Department of Public Safety by calling 911 so the incident can be investigated.

All ordinance violations should be reported to the Department of Public Safety via 911 on Bald Head Island. This ensures an immediate response and allows for call tracking and recording.

Tips for First-Time Visitors and Guests with Dogs

The Ferry: The ferry will likely be crowded with people and other dogs, potentially causing nervousness for first-time canine passengers. Owners should be prepared to calm and restrain their dogs. Dogs are not permitted inside the ferry cabin and must remain outside, regardless of weather conditions. Ferry surfaces can get hot; bringing a thick towel or blanket to protect paws is advisable.

New Smells: The island’s new scents will be distracting for dogs. Owners should maintain a tight grip on the leash upon arrival, as dogs may be inclined to run off.

Securing Dogs Indoors: When leaving a rental home, ensure pets are securely confined. Screened porches and doors may not be sufficient to prevent escape.

Dog Park: BHI has a designated Dog Park located at 230 N. Bald Head Wynd, adjacent to the BHA Community Garden. It offers separate fenced areas for small and large dogs, shade, ample space, seating for owners, and water bowls with a water source.

General Tips Regarding Dogs on BHI

Lost Dogs: If a dog is lost, immediately call 911 to involve the Department of Public Safety in the search. Found pets are often reported to the department or dropped off at the station. Information about lost and found pets is frequently posted on the Village’s social media channels (DPS Facebook, Village Facebook, Twitter, and/or Instagram).

At the Beach: Ensure dogs have access to plenty of fresh water at the beach. Providing a shade source is also recommended due to the hot sand. Umbrellas and canopies are permitted on the beach but must be removed nightly between 9:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. year-round. Preventing dogs from drinking salt water is crucial, as small amounts can cause diarrhea, and larger amounts can lead to vomiting and dehydration.

Protect from Predators & Ticks: Leaving pets unattended near lagoons is strongly discouraged due to the presence of alligators, which can jump surprisingly high. Maintain a distance of at least 20 feet. Coyotes are also present on BHI. Avoid leaving pets unsupervised outdoors and do not feed them outside, as this can attract coyotes and other pests. Ticks are common on BHI. Ensure pets are up to date on flea and tick medications or consult a veterinarian for preventative measures.

Veterinary Emergencies: There is no emergency veterinarian on Bald Head Island. Owners should be prepared to arrange for transport off the island in case of a veterinary emergency. It is advisable to have contact information for several transport companies and emergency veterinary clinics on the mainland readily available.