Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO)
Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs)
Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs) are in place to ensure that public spaces can be enjoyed by everyone and remain free from anti‑social behaviour.
They are used to address specific nuisances or problems that negatively affect a local community’s quality of life within a defined public area.
PSPOs can cover a range of activities, including:
- Anti‑social drinking
- Dog fouling
- Noise nuisance
- Littering
- Overnight camping
A PSPO lasts for three years and can only be introduced where:
- There is clear evidence that it is required
- It has been agreed by councillors
- A public consultation has taken place
- The Order has been published in writing and appropriate signage is displayed
Dorset Beaches PSPO 2025
The Parish Council supports the Dorset Council Dorset Beaches Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) 2025.
During the summer months, visitor numbers increase significantly along the West Bexington section of the coast. While visitors are welcome, it is important that the impact on the local community is minimised, particularly in relation to:
- Noise
- Litter
- Parking
- Any other forms of anti‑social behaviour
You can read the full Dorset Beaches PSPO here:
🔗 https://www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/documents/d/guest/7-dorset-beaches-asb-pspo-2025-final-1-7-25
Overnight Camping Restrictions
Overnight camping is not permitted within the PSPO Control Zone.
Section 4 of the PSPO states:
No groups of more than one person shall erect a tent, gazebo, marquee or other temporary structure intended to provide shelter or accommodation with the intention of camping overnight within the Controlled Zone without the express prior written permission of the landowner (Dorset Council).
The stretch of coastline that includes West Bexington is covered under Schedule 1b, which can be viewed here:
🔗 https://www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/documents/d/guest/7-1b-schedule-1b-burton-bradstock-to-abbotsbury
Reporting a Problem
If you have concerns or observe behaviour that may breach the PSPO, please report it:
- To the Parish Council, using the contact section of this website
- To Dorset Council’s Community Safety Team:
✉️ communitysafetyteam@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk
Anyone found to be in breach of a PSPO may be committing a criminal offence and could be issued with a fine.
Further information is available on Dorset Council’s website:
🔗 https://www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/w/public-space-protection-orders-for-anti-social-behaviour
Important Notice
DO NOT, UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES, ATTEMPT TO INTERVENE IN SUSPECTED BREACHES OF THE PSPO.
Enforcement is the responsibility of Dorset Council’s Community Safety Team.