City of Del Mar expands when and where dogs can be without leashes

DEL MAR (KUSI) — For the first time in 30 years, doggies at Del Mar’s dog beach will be able to run free, during the summer months.

“I thinks it’s fabulous, It’s about time. We’ve been coming down here for 15 years so this is awesome,” said Holly Hatt from Poway.

Normally, when the visitors arrive, the dogs are put back on a leash. Del Mar is a huge tourist destination during the summer. Among other things, the San Diego County Fair, The Del Mar Horse Races and the regular summer rush.

After getting pressure from local dog owners, the city council voted 4 to 1 in favor of loosening up the leash laws. But there’s a catch. It’s only in effect until 8 a.m. when the lifeguards arrive for duty.

“For me, this is the best beach for the dogs. There are other dog beaches, but this is the best,” said Barbara Yanni.

The new leash law goes into effect on June 15th, when the summer rush begins.