Ocean City May Allow Dogs on Its Beaches
Ocean City, the town with a history of restrictive laws, could be loosening its leash a little. City Councilman Keith Hartzell has proposed a law that would allow dogs on beaches between the hours of 6 p.m. and 9 p.m.
Hartzell told Ocean City Daily the success of his plan would rely on most dog owners picking up their dogs’ poop, which he believes would happen. His proposal, still in the planning stages, would impose a $500 fine on owners who don’t.
“Obviously, it’s something people have to self-police,” he told the publication. “You have to be responsible.”
And, yes, since it’s Ocean City you would be required to buy a doggy beach tag for your pooch. They’d be $10, and would pay for the installation of waste bags and dispensers at beach entrances.
Hartzell first proposed the dog plan at a City Council meeting two months ago. Most were receptive to the idea, per OC Daily. Current plans are for rules to say dogs must be leashed at all times, though that could change.
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