Dogs and horses – and their owners – can once again enjoy Jersey’s beaches following the end of the annual seasonal ban.
From 1 October, dogs are allowed to be exercised off-lead at any time of the day, while horse riders are also permitted to use the beaches without restriction.
The seasonal ban, which runs each year from 1 May to 30 September, limits dog owners to specific hours – between 10:30 and 18:00 – when their pets can be off the lead.
Horses are also barred from beaches during those hours throughout the summer months.
Last year, a petition calling for “dedicated dog-friendly beaches” gathered over 1,000 signatures. A similar petition in 2019 received more than 1,500 signatures.
Responding to the latest petition last September, Ministers said they “are mindful of the need to balance the interests of all beach users”.
They added that when considering changes to the regulations that govern dogs on beaches, any solution “must be proportionate” for all beach users and tourists.
Ministers added: “Islanders and visitors must be able to use Jersey’s beaches without being unduly affected by other people’s pets.”