What's allowed on Gold Coast beaches?

Our beautiful Gold Coast beaches are popular for good reason. It's our job to ensure this high demand doesn't impact the health and safety of beach users and the environment.

We've developed a management plan for commercial activities on our beaches outlining what's hot and what's not when it comes to our coastline. Note that allowed activities listed below require a licence or permit.

A table of two columns showing Activities allowed and Activities not allowed on our beaches.
Activities allowed Activities not allowed
Entertainment and promotional events of economic significance Buskers
Beach equipment hire by SLSCs within 100 metres of clubhouse Beach equipment hire (non Surf Lifesaving Club) from the beach
Beach equipment delivery and set-up (pre-hired)* Personal and group fitness training
Surfing and Surf Lifesaving competitions Kite surfing and wind surfing lessons
Surf schools Stand Up Paddle board lessons
Marriage ceremonies Lighting or maintaining a fire
Licensed skydiving at North Kirra beach All-terrain vehicle beach tours
Food/non-alcoholic beverage delivery (pre-ordered)* Food vendors and pop-up bars
Filming for movies/TV or still photography Touting and hawking
Dogs are allowed on leash on most beaches (except designated dog prohibited areas). Dogs aren't permitted within 200 metres of flagged areas. See below for more information about other animals in general.

Your pooch can enjoy our beaches too! In accordance with Council's Local Law No. 12 (Animal Management) 2013, Council has designated certain animal control areas on our beaches (Tallebudgera Beach, Palm Beach and The Spit) where dogs can be exercised off leash.

* subject to local law change.

Information about other animals on the beach

A permit is required to use a park, reserve, foreshore or beach for other animals, for example a horse.

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