Dog walking areas

Certain areas require dogs to be on leads, other ban dogs entirely, and some areas ban dogs at specific times of the year

For safety, and to ensure people can enjoy our public spaces, there are certain areas where you are restricted from walking your dog, and areas where dogs are to remain on leads. 

The  Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) legislation is being used to restrict the access of dogs in certain areas.  You can find more information in this link to interactive map showing dog restriction areas

What if you ignore a PSPO?

You can be fined:

  • £100 on the spot (a Fixed Penalty Notice)
  • up to £1,000 if it goes to court

Only owners of guide dogs are exempt.

Where you must keep your dog on a lead

General rules

Your dog must be on a lead in:

  • all cemeteries
  • promenades and roads alongside beaches where a seasonal dog ban is in place

Folkestone

  • The Leas

  • Kingsnorth Gardens

  • Cheriton Sports ground

Hawkinge

  • The Street football pitches

Lympne

  • Village hall playing field
  • Trim Trail

New Romney

  • St. Martin's Field
  • New Romney sports field
  • The Flagstaff land

Littlestone

  • The Greens

Certain people can direct you to put your dog on a lead

You must put your dog on a lead if told to by either:

  • a police officer
  • a police community support officer
  • or someone from the council

If you refuse you may be fined.

Where dogs are banned

These places are dog-free at all times:

  • all children's play areas
  • Folkestone Harbour fountain
  • Bowling greens and tennis courts at Wear Bay Road

Report it to us

If you see someone with a dog off a lead in an area where it shouldn't be you can report it.

You will need to

Log into your MyAccount (or create an account if you don't already have one) to complete the form. MyAccount is an easier and quicker way to interact with us and is available 24/7.

·         complete the form

Report dog off lead

If you wish to report it anonymously select the 'Report anonymously' option on the MyAccount log in page

Seasonal dog restrictions

Certain beaches are dog-free from 1 May to 30 September. Use the button below to find out the stretches of beach where these restrictions apply.

Seasonal dog restrictions