After what seems like months of rain, the weather appears to finally be improving so dog owners will want to take their pride and joy for a stroll in the sun – but, beware, as a number of beaches are about to be hit by the seasonal dog ban.

Cornwall Council is due to enforce Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPO) on a number of council-owned beaches from this week.

On most of the public 43 beaches across the Duchy, dogs are not allowed between 10am and 6pm from July 1 to August 31. However, on beaches that hold Blue Flag or Seaside Award status, restrictions are in place for longer, starting next Wednesday (May 15) and ending on September 30.

There are also three areas in the Hayle estuary where dogs are not allowed at all because they are protected wildlife areas.  Other privately owned beaches may have their own local restrictions in force.

People disregarding the PSPO are given advice to leave the restricted area with their dogs. 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.

Beaches where dogs are banned from May 15 to September 30 from 10am to 6pm:

Dogs must be on leads: Summerleaze Beach Bude – May 21 to September 30, 10am to 6pm

All-year ban: Carnsew Pool, Copperhouse Pool, Hayle Estuary