Dog Owners Warned: £1,000 Fines Loom as Beach Bans Begin in Britain

Dog owners across Britain are being warned to check local beach rules before heading out with their furry friends — or risk fines of up to £1,000.

Starting May 1, seasonal dog bans and partial restrictions will come into effect on many beaches across the UK. These Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs), which vary by council, could require dogs to be kept on a lead — or ban them completely from some areas.

Why the Ban?

Dog expert Chris Maxted, who appeared on Dragon’s Den with his company Dog-G8, explained that the rules are designed to protect water quality during the busy summer months. “Seasonal dog bans on UK beaches are a practical measure to protect water quality and maintain the Blue Flag status that many coastal areas value,” said Maxted.

He added that dog fouling and urine can seriously affect water quality, making the sea unsafe for swimmers.

PSPOs allow councils to enforce beach bans during peak seasons to reduce contamination, helping to create a safer and cleaner environment for all visitors.

When Are Dogs Allowed?

Most beaches allow dogs freely between October and April. However, during the summer, many bring in restrictions.

Maxted advised dog owners to always check beach rules before visiting, as the regulations vary widely. Some areas will have complete dog bans, while others only require dogs to be kept on leads or restricted to certain parts, like promenades.

Importantly, guide dogs are always allowed on beaches, even during restricted periods.

Ignoring beach rules could lead to an on-the-spot £100 fine, and if the matter goes to court, the penalty could rise to £1,000.

How to Find Dog-Friendly Beaches

Not every beach is off-limits.
Maxted recommends checking your local council’s website for up-to-date information before heading out. Councils typically publish clear guidelines about seasonal restrictions and dog-friendly areas. “Most councils provide up-to-date information on beach regulations, including any seasonal restrictions or rules regarding pets, so you can plan your visit accordingly,” Maxted said.

Dragon’s Den Success

Chris Maxted and his father Peter Maxted appeared on Dragon’s Den two years ago, seeking a £50,000 investment for their business, Dog-G8, which produces concertina-style dog gates.

They impressed the Dragons with 27.2 million views on TikTok.
Ultimately, they accepted an offer from Deborah Meaden, who invested £50,000 for a 20% share of the business — leaving the Den with smiles all around.