Dog lovers could face hefty fines if they are caught walking their dog on beaches across the UK as restrictions come into force this month.
Summer restrictions have been put in place on some coastal beaches around the UK and owners could face a £75 fine if they don’t stick to the new rules.
The restrictions will be in force from 1 May to 30 September and include beaches in Northumberland, Devon, Dorset and Essex.
Local councils use different powers to enforce the law, with restrictions sometimes only applying to certain beaches in the area. Guide dogs will be allowed on beaches even when the ban is in place.
While dog walkers up and down the UK have hit out at the new restrictions, some people are in favour of keeping their beaches dog free, with councils backing the ban.
Marcus Jackson, local environment services team leader at North Tyneside Council, said: “Here in North Tyneside, our beaches are one of our biggest attractions, as shown by our three Blue Flags and four seaside awards.
“We have more awards for our beaches that any other area in the North East and to maintain this, we have to implement a dog ban in the summer.”
For a full list of beaches your dog could be banned on, please contact your local council.
