They may be known as 'man's best friend' but at some of Norfolk's most popular beaches, they are barred from visiting.

North Norfolk District Council is currently reviewing its policies on dog restrictions in the area.

Rules are in place on eight beaches and promenades in the district, including destinations like Cromer, Sheringham and Mundesley.

Eastern Daily Press: Restrictions for dogs at Sea Palling are under reviewRestrictions for dogs at Sea Palling are under review (Image: Newsquest)

These rules apply at certain periods or year round and people breaking them could face a fine up to £1,000. 

The council introduced its current dog restriction orders in 2018, and is currently in the process of carrying out a public consultation on extending them.

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Eastern Daily Press: Dog walkers could be fined if they break the rulesDog walkers could be fined if they break the rules (Image: Newsquest)

The Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs) could be extended at some of the busiest beaches and promenades in the county but certain locations are no-go areas for dogs, including top tourist destinations like Cromer Pier.

Eastern Daily Press: Areas along Cromer beach and the pier have restrictions in place for dogsAreas along Cromer beach and the pier have restrictions in place for dogs (Image: Newsquest)

Areas in Bacton, Cromer, Mundesley, Overstrand, Sea Palling, Sheringham, Walcott and West Runton are all under the PSPOs. Under the rules, dog walkers have to keep their pets on their leads at all times or they are banned entirely.

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People can visit NNDC's website to find out more information about where and why the PSPOs are in place.

The majority of the PSPOs that restrict dogs are in place over the summer months between May 1 and September 31.

This is due to the council believing that the presence of dogs or failure to control dogs could result in a "detrimental effect" on the area or put wild animals at risk.

A number of these locations are known to be home to large colonies of grey seals or protected nesting birds.

An area-wide order covering dog fouling is also up for review. 

Councillor Callum Ringer, portfolio holder for environmental and waste services, said: It is important for public protection that these PSPOs are in place but it is also to ensure we retain the blue flag status of these beaches."

Members of the public have until May 1 to comment on the restrictions.