Long Beach City Council approves pilot program allowing dogs on beach
The Long Beach City Council voted unanimously Wednesday night to approve a pilot program permitting leashed dogs on the sand through April 15.
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After weeks of community debate, dogs are officially allowed on Long Beach’s Ocean Beach Park for a limited time.
The Long Beach City Council voted unanimously Wednesday night to approve a pilot program permitting leashed dogs on the sand through April 15.
The decision follows weeks of heated discussion among residents. Opponents of the plan cited concerns regarding beach cleanliness and uncollected dog waste, a worry shared even by some local pet owners.
"People don't pick up after themselves, and that's a problem," said Kal Lanco, a dog owner who lives near the boardwalk.
Supporters, however, see the move as an opportunity to build community. Jamie Gillespie, who currently brings her service animal to the shore, welcomed the expansion for other pet owners.
"It'd be nice if there were other dogs to play with," Gillespie said, suggesting designated hours or specific areas for pets.
To participate in the program, dog owners must obtain a permit, which costs $25 for residents and $50 for nonresidents. Pets must remain leashed at all times and be up to date on their rabies vaccinations. Council members warned that failure to comply with the rules could result in fines of up to $1,000.
City officials emphasized that the temporary nature of the trial allows them to evaluate its impact before making any permanent decisions.
"It's a pilot program, we need to get some data, we'll see if it works," a council member said during the meeting. "Hopefully it works, if not, we'll need to readjust."
