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
Dog Control Orders (DCO)
For safety, and to ensure people can enjoy our public spaces, there are many places where dogs must be on a lead or are banned altogether. These are called Dog Control Orders (DCO).
What if you ignore a DCO?
You can be fined:
- £80 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
- Bowling greens and tennis courts at Wear Bay Road
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
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.