A public consultation is under way to gauge opinion on when dogs should be allowed on beaches. It is running until 7th December.
Cornwall has hundreds of beaches, and many dog owners like to be able to take their dogs on to them. But not everyone likes or enjoys dogs.
Every three years, Cornwall Council consults on the Public Space Protection Order (PSPO), which is in place to balance the needs of dog owners and others who enjoy the 46 Cornish beaches that are subject to seasonal restrictions on dogs.
On most of these 43 beaches, dogs are currently not allowed between 10am and 6pm from 1st July to 31st August. On beaches that hold Blue Flag or Seaside Award status, restrictions are in place for longer, starting on 15th May and ending on 30th September.
In addition, there are three areas in the Hayle estuary where dogs are not allowed at all because they are protected wildlife areas.
Some privately-owned beaches have their own restrictions in place, but there are also many other beaches that do not have any restrictions for dogs at all.
“The feedback we receive suggests that the current level of restrictions works well for most beach users,” said a council spokesperson. “During the summer months, people are still able to take their dogs for a beach walk in the early morning and the evening, while people who prefer a beach to be dog free are clear about the months and times of day they can expect this.”
People disregarding the PSPO are given advice to leave the restricted area with their dogs. However, if they don’t follow this advice, £100 fixed penalty notices are issued. Patrols are undertaken by a mix of dog welfare enforcement officers, town and parish council officers, and civil enforcement officers.
The consultation can be found here. It must be completed by 7th December. Paper copies are available by calling 0300 1234 212.
