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Dog Licenses

Dog Licenses are required for all dogs on Sullivan's Island streets, private property or beaches per the Town Code Section 90-17. They are available for purchase through Town Hall. Customers are required to submit a copy of their valid driver’s license with their current address and an updated rabies vaccination certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian. The Town will not accept rabies vaccination records within two weeks of expiration. 

Dog Licenses are $25.00 for residents of Sullivan’s Island. Sullivan’s Island residency is verified by the address provided on a valid South Carolina driver’s license. The cost is $50.00 for all others. There is a $10 handling fee for any licenses processed through the mail. We accept cash, check or credit/debit cards in the office (service charges may apply.) There is a $2.00 discount for dogs that have been certified by the American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizenship program (certificate must be presented at the time of application.) Licenses are valid until December 31st of the current year and are not prorated. Renewals are required on January 1st of the new year and my be obtained by presenting your updated rabies certificate to Town Hall.

For questions regarding the application process, please email frontdesk@sullivansisland.sc.gov

Pepper So-Gypin
Photo courtesy of
P. So-Gypin

Beach Hours for Dogs

Summer hours for dogs on the beach run from May 1st to September 30th. During that time dogs can be off leash from 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., on leash from 6:00 p.m. to 5 a.m. No dogs are permitted on the beach between the hours of 10:00 a.m and 6:00 pm. Winter hours for dogs on the beach run from October 1st to April 30th. During that time dogs can be off leash from 5:00 a.m. to noon and on leash from Noon to 5:00 a.m. 

It is the law that anyone with custody of a dog must collect the dogs waste and dispose of it in a waste receptacle. Dog waste bags are provided in parks and at beach paths.