Devon’s beach bans on dogs could soon be relaxed
East Devon Council is to consider relaxing a number of summertime beach bans on dogs.
Many beaches across East Devon have an outright ban on dogs walking on the sand between May and September. However, under the proposals, the seasonal dog bans at Exmouth beach, Budleigh Salterton beach, Sidmouth beach, Beer beach and Seaton beach would remain between 1 May and 30 September, but only between 9am and 6pm.
In addition, councillors will consider increasing the fine for people breaking the Public Space Protection Orders. The fine is currently set at £80, but officers are proposing that it is raised to £100, to bring East Devon in line with neighbouring authorities.
Sally Webster, PEHO, Environmental Protection, said: “The introduction of time limits for the use of the beach for dog owners will enable the council to prioritise and target our resources more effectively during the summer months to tackle specific anti-social behaviour relating to dogs.
“If complaints are received regarding incidents of anti-social behaviour, targeted patrols can take place based on intelligence gathering in respect of fouling on the beaches for example, and enable the officer to issue Fixed Penalty Notices. Outside of the specific time limits, the DEO will regularly patrol the beaches, taking the appropriate enforcement action as needed.”
A consultation on the proposals is due to take place between 10 October and 20 November. Responses will be considered and if appropriate the orders will be amended prior to the final draft being submitted for approval ahead of introduction in May 2023.
