Overview
- Many seaside councils will restart seasonal dog restrictions from 1 May, with most running until 30 September.
- Industry listings and past studies indicate roughly 600 UK beaches impose bans either seasonally or year-round.
- Breaching a restriction can bring an on-the-spot £100 fixed penalty, rising to about £1,000 if a court convicts under local orders.
- In North Devon, Torridge District Council confirmed Westward Ho! will ban dogs south of Sandymere Bridge and require leads on the promenade through 30 September.
- Rules differ by beach, so owners are urged to check council signs and bylaws before visiting, with assistance dogs usually exempt.