Beachgoers heading the the coast this summer should make sure they are aware of new rules which often come into force during peak season on dog walking. A host of seaside destinations have restrictions on canine activities, usually in place from at least May until September, and people flouting the rules could face a heavy fine.

Some public beach areas in England and Wales are covered by Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs), previously called Dog Control Orders (DCOs), which set down a variety of conditions relating to the exercising of a pooch. Coastal councils often impose certain times when dogs are not allowed on the beach to protect other people and to crack down on things like dog mess. According to Gov.co.uk, in public areas with PSPOs, you may have to keep your dog on a lead, or put your dog on a lead if told to by a police officer, police community support officer or someone from the council.

Other stipulations may include the banning of dogs during certain times, or you may be required to limit the number of dogs you have with you (this applies to professional dog walkers too).

Further regulations relate to dog mess, including orders to clear up after your dog and to carry a poop scoop and disposable bags.

Anyone who decides to break the rules, either knowingly or by accident, could face a fine of £100 on the spot, a ‘Fixed Penalty Notice’, or a fee of up to £1,000 if it goes to court.

Some coastal local authorities often enforce a ban on dogs using beaches during certain times, for example from between 10am to 6pm.

Some of the popular UK destinations enforcing restrictions include; Scarborough, Whitby, Folkestone, Margate, Seaton Carew, Seaburn, Brighton, Colwyn Bay and Polzeath.

Dorset's Durdle Door Beach is also affected, as is Runswick Bay, Horsey Gap and Barafundle Bay.

East Lindsey District Council, which covers the popular seaside resort of Skegness and surrounding areas, has restrictions in place from May 1 to September 30 each year.

The council website states: "Dogs are banned from 1st May to 30th September each year, on specified areas of the beaches at our coastal towns in Skegness, Mablethorpe and Sutton on Sea.

"Dogs must be placed and kept on a lead on the Promenades at Skegness, Mablethorpe & Sutton on Sea between 1st May & 30th September each year, in the beach ban areas.

"It is an offence not to place a dog on a lead when requested by an appropriately Authorised Person, if the dog is deemed to be out of control. This applies to any public open spaces in the district."