Summer is all about freedom and fun, but there are a few seasonal laws and local rules that can quickly turn a sunny day into a costly mistake. Yes really!
From BBQs and beach trips to towing and tyres, here’s what you need to know to stay safe, respectful, and fine-free this summer.
Beach bother – don’t get burnt!
Dog walkers, watch out!
Many UK beaches enforce seasonal dog bans from May 1 to September 30, especially between 10am and 6pm. These rules are part of Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs) designed to keep beaches clean and safe during peak season.
Always check signage at beach entrances or your local council’s website before heading out with your pup. You could face on-the-spot fines of £100, or up to £1,000 if prosecuted!
Beach BBQs – not always a sizzlin’ idea
While a beach BBQ sounds idyllic, many councils have banned disposable BBQs due to fire risks and environmental damage. Others allow them only after certain hours (e.g., after 6pm) or in designated areas.
The same goes for parks; some may have designated BBQing zones while in some locations it’s altogether banned. You could face fines of up to £100 for using a BBQ in a restricted zone, so only use them where permitted and dispose of your waste safely.
What’s the deal with wild camping?
Overnight camping on most UK beaches is prohibited, especially on land owned by the National Trust, Crown Estate, or Ministry of Defence. You could be asked to leave or fined up to £2,500 for trespassing. Check out more about where you can camp in the UK here.
Don’t pocket pebbles
Did you know that it’s illegal to take natural materials like pebbles, shells, or sand from UK beaches under the Coast Protection Act 1949? While many people like to take a souvenir shell or two home, you could actually be fined £1,000!
Summer driving slip-ups that’ll cost you
Don’t dry out!
Yes, in the UK, it is illegal to drive a car without windscreen washer fluid if your vehicle is required to have a windscreen washer system. According to Regulation 34 of The Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986, any vehicle fitted with a windscreen and wipers must also have a functioning washer system—unless it falls under specific exemptions (like certain agricultural or very slow-moving vehicles).
Driving without washer fluid could be a £100 fine, or even a charge of careless driving if your lack of visibility contributes to an accident.
Tired tyres
Hot roads can worsen worn tyres. Driving with tread below the legal limit (1.6mm) is illegal and dangerous. Having the right tyres, inflated to the correct level can also help you save on fuel costs, so it’s important to keep them in good nick.
Don’t overheat!
While it’s not illegal to run without aircon, leaking refrigerant (especially R134a or R1234yf) is an environmental offence. And ignoring warning lights or continuing to drive an overheating car can be considered negligent.
Keep a clear view
Anything that blocks your view (like your mobile phone, large sat navs or sunshades) can lead to fines for driving without proper control or full view of the road. And if you don’t use sun visors or sunglasses to block dazzling sunlight and are involved in an accident, you could be charged with careless driving.
Towing the line
If you’re towing a caravan or trailer, ensure your licence covers it and that the trailer is roadworthy. Overloading or poor visibility can lead to fines. Any roof boxes and bike racks must be securely fastened and not obscure lights or number plates.
Why you could be fined for overpacking.
Passengers, pets and problem tech
Leaving children or pets in a hot car, even briefly, can lead to criminal charges under child endangerment or animal welfare laws. And driving with an unrestrained pet or without a safety guard in your boot can lead to a fine and invalidate your insurance.
Dashcams and phones can also be distractions while driving, unless you’re using them hands-free or while stationary with the engine off.
Stay cool, stay safe
Summer should be about making memories, not mistakes. By staying aware of the seasonal rules and driving safely, you can enjoy the sunshine without the stress of unexpected fines!
And if you need cover for your car, campervan, caravan, or even your staycation plans, Howden is here to help keep things cool, calm and protected all summer long. Search Howden Insurance to find your local branch.
Sources: Wales Online, Confused.com, Highway Code.
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- Cyberattacks: how to protect your data
This is a marketing blog by Howden Insurance.