Hundreds of UK beaches have implemented restrictions on taking dogs on the coastline from May 1. Dog owners across the country may face a fine up to £1,000 if they fail to follow the guidelines. 

The majority of beaches across the country allow people to walk their dogs from 1 October to 30 April every year. However, many local councils have introduced restrictions that will remain in place from May through to September. Where possible, the councils have put up a sign on each entrance to the beaches that states whether dogs are allowed or not.

The ban comes into force under a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO), with complete bans introduced in some places and partial bans in others.

A partial ban could include things like dog owners having to keep their pets on leads, or only walking them on promenades rather than the actual beach.

The order was first introduced in October 2017, and a new order was granted in November 2024, which will last for three years.

Some of the areas that are affected by the dog ban include Bournemouth, Cornwall, Tyneside, Dorset, Somerset, Nairn, Pembrokeshire, Anglesey, Sussex, Kent, and the Isle of Wight, among others. 

Chris Maxted, director of retractable dog gate supplier Dog-G8 told Mirror Online: "Seasonal dog bans on UK beaches are a practical measure to safeguard water quality and uphold the Blue Flag status that many coastal areas cherish. 

"Dog poo and pee can significantly affect water quality, rendering it unfit for swimming. Public Spaces Protection Orders allow councils to enforce beach bans during peak seasons to reduce contamination from dog fouling.

"These rules aim to create a safer and cleaner environment for everyone, while making sure coastal waters remain suitable for bathing.

"It's important for dog owners to check before visiting beaches, as the rules can vary significantly."