This petition calls for a change to the current rules restricting dog access to Dorset and Hampshire beaches, which ban dogs from 1 May to 30 September.

After the busy summer tourist season, the beaches become quiet, and there is no reason to continue banning dogs when few people are using them. Allowing dogs on beaches from 1 September would provide much-needed space for dog owners, who have faced increasing restrictions, especially as dog ownership has surged since 2020. 

Other regions like Cornwall already allow this, and with designated dog-friendly areas overcrowded, opening beaches earlier would benefit both owners and local businesses.

Call to Open Weymouth Beaches to Dogs a Month Earlier

A new petition is calling on councils in Dorset to allow dogs back on beaches from 1 September instead of 1 October, arguing that the current ban is outdated and unnecessarily restrictive once the main tourist season ends.

Under existing rules, dogs are banned from many beaches between 1 May and 30 September, including popular stretches in Weymouth and Bournemouth. Campaigners say that by early September, Weymouth’s beaches are already noticeably quieter, with families returning home and children back at school.

Local dog owners argue there is little justification for continuing a full ban when large sections of Weymouth Beach are effectively empty for much of the day.

Weymouth Businesses Could Benefit

Supporters also highlight the potential boost to Weymouth’s local economy, particularly cafés, pubs, and independent shops that rely on autumn trade. Dog-friendly access could encourage longer stays from visitors travelling outside peak season, especially from neighbouring counties.

Other coastal regions, including Cornwall, already allow dogs on beaches earlier in the year or operate more flexible restrictions, adding pressure for Dorset councils to reconsider their approach.

Compromise Proposed

The petition does not call for unrestricted summer access. Instead, it suggests a compromise similar to other seaside towns:

 • Dogs allowed on beaches from 1 September

 • Or time-limited access, such as before 9am and after 6pm

Campaigners say this would balance the needs of dog owners, residents, and remaining visitors, while easing pressure on the few designated dog-friendly areas, which often become overcrowded.

Urgent Push for Signatures

The petition needs 10,000 signatures before July to be formally presented to the council. Organisers are urging Weymouth residents and dog lovers across Dorset to add their support.