DEL MAR–New rules that expand the hours for off-leash dogs on portions of Del Mar’s beaches are now in effect.
The change opens a section of the Main Beach — between 25th and 29th streets — to off-leash dogs before 8 a.m. during the off-season.
Del Mar is the only city in North County where dogs can run and play unrestrained on the beach.
In September, after a cooperative process with residents, the City Council agreed to expand off-leash hours along the four-block stretch. The action also opened the North Beach to off-leash dogs before from dawn to 8 a.m. during the peak season.
The City Council’s unanimous vote to revise the Dog Ordinance also included approval for new signs and an outreach program that has lifeguards, park ranger and community service officers talking to dog owners to explain the rules. The City’s goal is for all beachgoers, with or without dogs, to have a great experience.
For the three sections of Del Mar’s beach, off-season and peak-season leash rules are as follows:
Off Season (Day after Labor Day through June 14)-North Beach (29th Street to Solana Beach border) off-leash dogs allowed.
Main Beach (North boundary of Powerhouse Park to 29th Street)-Leashed dogs allowed. Off-leash dogs allowed between 25th and 29th streets from dawn to 8 a.m.
South Beach (Powerhouse Park to Torrey Pines State Beach boundary, at 6th Street)-Dogs must be leashed.
Peak Season
North Beach (29th Street to Solana Beach border)-Off-leash dogs permitted from dawn to 8 a.m.
Dogs must be leashed, 8 a.m. to dawn.
Main Beach (North boundary of Powerhouse Park to 29th Street)-No dogs allowed.
South Beach (Powerhouse Park to Torrey Pines State Beach boundary, at 6th Street)-Dogs must be leashed.
Penalties for leash law violations begin at $285.
In all areas, dogs must wear a license on their collars. Leashes may be no longer than six feet. In off-leash areas, dogs must be under voice control.
The City said owners must clean up after their pets.
