A STRICT rule in place across hundreds of UK beaches has been lifted this week.
Often enforced during the busy summer months, local councils ban dogs from being allowed on the beaches.
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The rules are usually in place from May to September, with fines between £100 and £1,000.
The ban is enforced to reduce dog poo on the beaches, as well as to keep kids safe.
However, many beaches end the ban from October 1, due to the peak season being over.
Devon beaches including Exmouth, Budleigh Salterton, Sidmouth, Beer and Seaton beaches have all ended their dog exclusion areas which started on May 1.
In Cornwall, beaches such as Polzeath Beach, Porthminister Beach and Crackington Haven have lifted the dog ban rule.
Kevin Brader, community protection team manager at Cornwall Council told the BBC: “We’ve seen a high degree of compliance from the public.
“Dog owners have done their research in advance before going out for a walk.”
“For me, it’s been a very good year.”
In Yorkshire, Bridlington’s North and South beaches, Hornsea Beach and Withernsea Beach have also lifted the rules.
Other popular beaches where you can now take your dog include Brighton, Margate and Torbay.
The dog ban doesn’t apply to anyone registered blind, or who has a disability that affects their mobility or physical coordination.
We’ve rounded up some of the best dog-friendly beaches in the UK too.
And here are the other ways you could be breaking the law on the beach.
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