Pet owners heading to the coast this summer as a ban comes into force across UK beaches which could see those in breach fined £1,000. Hundreds of seaside hotspots have introduced bans on dogs, rolled out on May 1 and set to last until the end of September.
Importantly, the measures do not apply to guide dogs. There are some differences between beaches, as some only impose restrictions during peak hours, for example from 10am-6pm, while some coastal sites have banned dogs completely, with others allowing them if kept on leads. Though the rules may differ from place to place, anyone contravening them could be hit with a fine of £100 on the spot, with the sum potentially going up to £1,000 if the issue finds its way to court.
A majority of beaches across the country do allow pooch owners to walk their pets from October 1 to April 30 every year, but many local councils have introduced restrictions through the remaining months.
Termed a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO), the measures can enforce complete or partial bans.
The aim is to keep beaches clean and safe during the busier summer period, particularly when there are more children on the coast.
Although many people clean up after their dogs when they leave a mess, dog poo left on beaches can be a health hazard.
Chris Maxted, a director of dog gate supplier Dog-G8, said: “It’s important for dog owners to check before visiting beaches, as the rules can vary significantly. Many beaches allow dogs from October 1 to April 30, but enforce restrictions from May to September under Public Space Protection Orders.”
According to the Blackpool Gazette, Devon was the region with the most dog-friendly beaches, at 79, while the Isles of Scilly had just a single pooch-friendly spot.
Cornwall boasted 60 dog-friendly beaches, while Northumberland and Dorset had 37 each.
Some UK beaches where dogs are banned and restricted is below:
Banned:
Suffolk
May be restricted:
Sussex
Essex
Norfolk
