Ten UK Beach Laws

Beaches in the UK are just like anywhere other public space; however, they do come with a few rules and regulations you may not be aware of. Now, you don't need to be a legal expert to avoid these coastal crimes but some laws of the beach may come as something of a surprise. So, to make sure your refreshing dip doesn't land you in hot water (or more likely a hefty fine), we've put together a selection of the most relevant laws affecting beachgoers.

1. Camping on the beach

Whilst this may seem like the beach would be the perfect place to spend a night under the stars it is actually illegal along most of the UK coast. The big landowners (National Trust, MoD, Crown etc) put these rules in place to reduce antisocial behaviour. There were signs they may have been relaxed a few years back but Covid lockdowns put pay to this when thousands and thousands headed for the coast and left a trail of litter and destruction behind. Beach camping is generally regarded as trespass and at the very least you will be asked to move on. Those who disregard them can be fined up to £2,500 or even be prosecuted.

The good news is that it is legal to camp on the beach along most of Scotland's 6,000 miles of coast.

2. Don't collect pebbles

In fact don't take anything from the beach home with you, well except your rubbish. Whilst I'm sure we've all done it on some scale it is in fact illegal to remove any natural materials from the beach. This includes pebbles, seashells, plants, sand and rocks. This is laid out in the Coast Protection Act 1949 and those who disregard it could be fined up to £1,000.

3. Beach barbecues

A number of local authorities have rules on barbecues These often concern single use BBQs, to help protect wildlife and because of the danger they pose when abandoned. For example, in Brighton single use BBQs have been banned since 2022. Ignoring these rules can land you with a £100 fine.

Some councils also have rules on when BBQs can take place, e.g. after 6pm, when the beach is quieter.

Rules also apply to bonfires, and it is often the case that permission is required to have one on the beach.

4. Dog walking

Dogs are welcome at many beaches all year round. However, during the busier summer months many local councils enforce seasonal restrictions on the times dogs are allowed on the beach under a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO). This is usually between certain hours and only for a few months of the year, typically from May to September and between 10am and 6pm.

Owners who choose to ignore these restrictions run the risk of being fined up to £100. Check our dog friendly beaches section or look for posted signs at beach entrances to avoid any surprises.

5. Going au naturel

As a nation, the British are fairly tolerant when it comes to public nudity. That said, legally speaking it is something of a grey area, although people are very rarely prosecuted. The law is the same on the beach as in any other public space and goes along the lines of: Those who intentionally expose their genitals with the intent of causing alarm or distress are in breach of section 66 of the Sexual Offences Act 2003. This is considered a fairly serious offence, although intent would have to be proven, which is unlikely if you were just going for a skinny dip.

It may seem a safer proposition for ladies to go topless, as this involves no exposing of the genitals, but even this isn't without a theoretical risk. If two or more members of the public see you and deem your attempts at an even tan to be causing offence then you could still be prosecuted under the Public Order Act 1986.

6. Weeing in the sea

This brings us largely into the world of hypothetical seaside misdemeanours as I would imagine this would be somewhat difficult to prove. That aside, in theory, going for a wee in the sea would fall under the same laws that are imposed on urinating in public. These are usually in the hands of local authorities and are most likely to involve a Penalty Notice for Disorder. More seriously, you could be charged with indecent exposure under The Sexual Offences Act.

7. Littering

Keeping our beaches clean is a high priority in the UK. Littering is illegal, and it should go without saying that you leave anything behind. Beaches are natural spaces and as visitors we should leave no trace. To this end recycling and rubbish bins are usually available where you can dispose of it properly.

Of course some people are incapable of behaving, in which case the maximum fine is up to £2,500 and possible prosecution.

8.Private beaches

Most beaches in the UK are open to the public, but some may be privately owned, which can restrict access. The 'Right to Roam' under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 allows public access to certain lands for walking, but this doesn't always apply to beaches.

The majority of privately-owned beaches are open to the public, with most people are unaware they are even in private hands. However if you chose to access privately-owned land without permission you are quite likely trespassing. Refusing to move on can result in a fine or even prosecuted if you are a repeat offender.

That said, access to the foreshore, i.e. the sea, is a given right in the UK but the law is a little complicated as explained in this article.

9. Beach parties

Some local authorities will require you seek permission for large gatherings – e.g. over 20 people. Parties also run the risk of breaking other bye-laws such as drinking alcohol. Many local councils impose restrictions or designate alcohol-free zones to maintain a family-friendly environment. Live music or other activities that may have a detrimental impact on the quality of life of others in the locality may also land you with a fine.

10. Driving on the beach

Generally speaking you are not allowed to drive your car on the beach in the UK. There is good reason for this, not only to protect other beachgoers and wildlife, but to protect drivers from themselves. Every year there are stories in the media about cars getting stuck in the sand, with the lucky one being towed before the tide comes in.

While taking your car on the majority of UK beaches will get you a healthy fine, there are exceptions. A number of beaches actually have parking on the beach, for example Brean in Somerset and Polzeath in Cornwall. There are also a handful of beaches where you can legally drive. These include Southport in Lancashire and Black Rock Sands in North Wales.

By adhering to these guidelines and laws, you can be sure your beach visit is not only enjoyable but also respectful of the environment and fellow beachgoers. Whether you're basking in the sun at a Cornish cove or strolling along a Scottish shore, understanding and respecting local laws will only enhance your coastal experience.