Now that summer is over, dogs are once again allowed on public beaches at any time.

Time and season laws are placed in public places over busy periods to avoid conflict between dogs and people. During the summer months, dogs are prohibited on beaches from 10.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. For the rest of the year, dog owners may walk their pooches on the beach whenever they please.

However, some areas still remain off limits. At the northern end of Omaha Beach, including Omaha Beach Reserve and the adjacent beach and foreshore areas, dogs are prohibited at all times, regardless of the season, to protect sensitive species such as dotterels. Failure to meet these terms can result in an infringement notice, and a $300.00 fine.

While dogs are allowed to roam free on most beaches, in the following areas, they must be on-leash at all times:

• public roads (including any street, highway, access way, service lane, and any footpath, cycle track, bus stop and berm within the boundaries of the road).
• private ways
• council-controlled boating areas (including any wharf, jetty, boat ramp or boat marshalling area).

And remember: always pick up after your dog! Carry bags with you to dispose of any mess your dog may make. When in a public place or premises, dog owners must ensure the immediate removal and disposal of their dog’s waste. Leaving nasty little surprises is awful for other people, is also illegal and can result in a fine.