Westport Coronavirus Updates: No Pets At Beaches After April 1

WESTPORT, CT — Though the town continues to grapple with the new coronavirus (COVID-19), the Westport Parks and Recreation Department is still preparing for the summer season, including upholding the seasonal ban on pets at the beaches after April 1.

"Although we are currently under a Local Civil Preparedness Emergency and some restrictions have been implemented due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we are still preparing for the summer season, which means as of April 1, 2020 no animals will be allowed on Compo, Old Mill, or Burying Hill beaches (in or out of cars),” said Parks and Recreation Director Jennifer Fava in a statement.

The Compo Beach playground is closed, as are beach parking lots. Additionally, Town Hall remains closed to the public.

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The Parks and Rec Department also is suspending the sale of parking stickers until further notice, due to COVID-19.

"As this public health emergency holds a great deal of uncertainty, we don't currently know when we will be able to fully open up our facilities," Fava said. "In light of this, the sale of beach emblems is postponed until further notice. We will re-evaluate this when we have a clearer picture of the situation."

The annual animal beach ban is in effect from April 1 through September 30, but Fava also asks that residents keep their pets off of other town recreational facilities year round.

"For the safety and well-being of our field users and our golf course, please help us keep them in good playing condition by keeping animals off of our ball fields and golf course year round," Fava said. "Although these regulations restricting animals are in place at the beach from April 1 through September 30, dogs are welcome at Winslow Park year round."

Winslow Park is located at Compo Road North and Post Road East, and has posted on-leash and off-leash areas. For more detailed information regarding Parks policies, visit www.westportrecreation.com.

"For the time being, please remember not to congregate at parks and athletic fields. We encourage all to get outside and get some exercise, but please do not gather in groups," Fava added.

For updates, visit the Town website at westportct.gov/covid19 or #Westportctcovid19info.