A dog on a Gulf Shore beach in violation of the law.Some residents, visitors are not cooperating

Gulf Shores, Alabama (WKRGMore) — The beach is a place for friends and family to hang out, but not everyone welcomes pets. The city of Gulf Shores has laws that prohibit all dogs and pets, including service dogs, from setting foot on the white sand beach. But some people don’t take it seriously.

Gulf Shores City Councilman Steve Jones says the law needs to be taken more seriously.

“People don’t seem to be aware of or ignore that law. They bring their dogs to white sand beaches most of the time. If you’re doing business and it’s not being cleaned, it’s It’s safety and health. It’s a problem,” Jones said.

At a recent city council meeting, city leaders discussed the recent trend of walking dogs on beaches, even when there are signs regarding the No Pets Act.

“We are not pet friendly or pet hate, but as we have said before it is a health and safety issue and you never know what will happen to your pet when confronted with children or people. Hmm,” Jones said.

Debbie Platt, who visited the Gulf Coast from Indiana, has a dog, but knows that you shouldn’t take dogs to the beach.

“I think they need to keep these beautiful beaches beautiful and follow the law,” Pratt said.

Dogs are allowed on the beach if they are on the boardwalk or in the parking lot, but the moment a dog steps onto the white sand, fines range from $100 to $500 plus the equivalent of up to $370 court costs may apply.

The City of Gulf Shores asks all residents and visitors to respect the law and the beaches and keep their furry friends at home while at the beach.