As summer tourism surges across the United Kingdom’s most beloved coastal destinations, local councils are stepping up enforcement of strict by-laws aimed at curbing disruptive seagull behaviour. Tourists visiting seaside hotspots like Cornwall, East Sussex, and Yorkshire now face heavy penalties for feeding gulls — a practice that authorities say fuels aggressive bird behaviour, endangers public safety, and contributes to unsanitary conditions. With fines reaching into the thousands, this tough new stance is designed to protect both residents and holidaymakers while preserving the quality of Britain’s cherished coastal environments.

UK Holidaymakers Warned: Feeding Seagulls Could Land You with Hefty Fines Across Coastal Towns

As temperatures rise and summer vacations begin, millions of families are making their way to Britain’s picturesque coastlines. Whether enjoying a short seaside break or a week-long retreat, beachgoers are being reminded to tread carefully — not just on sand, but around local laws. A surprising regulation in many UK seaside towns could see visitors fined hundreds or even thousands of pounds for a seemingly harmless act: feeding seagulls.

While it might feel like a charming part of a classic beach day, tossing leftovers to opportunistic gulls could result in unexpected legal trouble. In numerous coastal towns across the UK, feeding these birds is now considered a punishable offence under local public health and anti-social behaviour by-laws. In fact, some offenders have been slapped with fines well above one thousand pounds.

A Costly Mistake Many Don’t See Coming

Last year, in Fylde near Blackpool, a 97-year-old woman was reportedly threatened with a £2,500 fine — and possible legal action — after neighbours accused her of feeding birds in her garden. The case highlighted just how serious councils are about enforcing these measures, even on private property in some cases.

Luxury Group Stay, a leading provider of high-end UK holiday accommodation, has urged travellers to be fully aware of local by-laws that may impact their getaway. The company emphasized the importance of understanding regional rules to avoid spoiling what should be a relaxing and enjoyable coastal escape.

Towns Taking a Tough Stance

In the coastal town of Aldeburgh in Suffolk, clear warning signs are displayed to alert visitors that feeding seagulls is a prosecutable offence. The rule was brought in back in 2009 after locals raised concerns over aggressive seagull behaviour. Authorities cited frequent swooping incidents, attacks on people holding food, and increasing property damage from persistent gulls rummaging through bins.

The move to restrict gull feeding has since spread across multiple UK coastal communities. Many councils have implemented Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs) — legal tools used to maintain public order and safety — specifically aimed at discouraging interaction with seagulls. In some areas, by-laws are enforced without visible signage, making it easy for unsuspecting visitors to fall afoul of the rules.

Why These Laws Exist

Authorities argue that feeding seagulls creates more problems than it solves. Regular feeding causes birds to become over-reliant on human-provided food, disrupts their natural foraging habits, and increases aggressive behaviour. Some communities have seen surges in noise complaints, property damage, and even injuries from seagulls aggressively snatching food from unsuspecting tourists.

Local councils are therefore using fines as a deterrent to help protect public spaces, maintain hygiene, and reduce conflict between humans and urban wildlife.

Areas Where Fines May Be Issued

To help tourists stay informed, Luxury Group Stay has compiled a list of UK destinations where feeding seagulls could trigger fines. The penalties vary by region, but even a minor infraction could cost a visitor a significant amount:

• In East Devon, individuals caught feeding seagulls on beaches such as Exmouth, Budleigh Salterton, Sidmouth, Beer, and Seaton may face penalties between eighty and one hundred pounds.
• Dorset – Penalties of up to one hundred pounds in Lyme Regis, West Bay, and Bridport.
• Jersey (St Saviour Parish) – Offenders may be fined up to one thousand pounds in residential areas such as Clos Paumelle.
• Cornwall – Up to one hundred pounds in St Ives, a popular summer hotspot.
• North Yorkshire – Maximum fines of one hundred pounds in Whitby and Scarborough, both known for their scenic coastlines and bustling summer scenes.
• East Sussex – Tourists in Eastbourne and Hastings may also face fines of up to one hundred pounds.

The United Kingdom is cracking down on seagull feeding in top coastal towns, warning tourists that the act can lead to hefty fines due to rising safety concerns and public health risks. Local councils aim to protect communities and preserve seaside experiences.

A Caution for Summer Tourists

Although these penalties may seem harsh, they are intended to reduce the negative effects that feeding seagulls can have on the environment and local communities. With rules often differing between regions — and signage not always clearly visible — visitors are strongly encouraged to check local council guidance or tourism websites before engaging with wildlife during their trip.

What seems like a generous gesture to a hungry bird might end up being a costly misstep.

In Summary:
As holidaymakers descend on Britain’s coastline, local councils are cracking down on seagull feeding with fines reaching into the thousands. With regulations differing by town, visitors are urged to stay informed to avoid penalties and ensure their beach holidays remain stress-free.