A petition calling for changes to seasonal dog restrictions on Jersey’s beaches has surpassed 1,000 signatures, meaning ministers will have to respond.

The petition, titled “amend restriction times for dogs on beaches”, argued that the current rules are too restrictive at a point when the peak summer season has largely come to an end.

Dogs are currently restricted to being on a lead on all beaches between 10.30am and 6pm from 1 May to 30 September.

Sarah Esteves, who created the petition, said that beaches can become overcrowded during this period, “especially when the tide is high”.

She questioned why the restrictions continue until the end of September, when children have returned to school and the peak tourist season may have ended.

The petition proposes changing the restriction period to between 30 May and 7 September, explaining that beaches are generally busiest between June and early September.

“This would ensure that dog owners have more weeks to let their dogs off the lead to enjoy the beaches and, for those energetic dogs, more freedom when off a lead – allowing plenty of exercise,” said Ms Esteves.

At the time of writing, the petition had received just under 1,100 signatures. Ministers must respond to all petitions that receive more than 1,000 signatures.

 A 2024 petition calling for dedicated dog-friendly beaches attracted more than 1,100 signatures, following a similar petition in 2019, which drew over 1,500.

Earlier this year, Economic Development Minister Kirsten Morel said he would support the idea of introducing dedicated dog-friendly beaches – but warned that any changes would require the backing of parish Constables.

In a letter to a Scrutiny panel reviewing new animal control legislation, he explained that while the regulations fall under his ministerial remit, enforcement and day-to-day management are the responsibility of the island’s 12 parishes.

As a result, he said it would not be appropriate to reform the system without the support of the Constables’ Committee.

Deputy Morel noted that the current rules were introduced “at a time when visitor numbers to Jersey were significantly higher” and said he remains open to options – such as creating year-round dog-friendly beaches, adjusting the 10.30am start time, or delaying when restrictions begin in the year.

But, according to the minister, none of the Constables supported the idea of designated dog beaches, and there was “very limited support” for other proposals, such as pushing the restriction start time back or easing weekday rules in May.

“The Comité therefore concluded that the status quo should be maintained,” Deputy Morel said, adding that he would remain open to reform if parish views shift.