Once September hits, seasonal restrictions on pets begin to ease across coastal towns, giving dog owners more flexibility to bring their four-legged friends along for a walk in the sand or a run through the surf.

Still, a statewide leash law remains in effect: dogs must be on a leash unless on private property or in a designated off-leash area. Service dogs are generally exempt, but emotional support animals are not.

Here’s a town-by-town breakdown of fall dog rules at the beach: LEWES

Dogs are prohibited on Lewes beaches between 8 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. from May 1 through Sept. 30. Outside of those hours — including fall mornings and evenings — dogs are allowed but must be leashed. Owners must also clean up after their pets. For off-leash play, Lewes Unleashed offers a membership-based do

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