Beach patrols

Water Safety Byelaws

The Council has made byelaws under section 76 of the Public Health Act 1961 to regulate the use of pleasure craft along our district coastlines.  Popular bathing beaches are zoned with a series of yellow marker buoys to create protected areas for bathers from boats, yachts, jetskis, sailboards, kite surfers and such like.  Public information notices detailing the restrictions are posted along those beach areas where the byelaws apply between 1st May and 30th September each year.  These are Seaford, Tidemills, Westbeach Newhaven and East Saltdean.  The sandy beach at Newhaven Harbour entrance is under the control of the Harbour Authority whose own speed restriction rules apply there.

Any person observing a boat owner operating contrary to the byelaws should note any identifying name or number on the vessel and report the matter during office hours to Port Health on 01273 471600 or, at other times, the Call Centre on 01243 533144.  Alternatively you can email ehealth@lewes.gov.uk.

Seaford Lifeguards are authorised to act as the Council's agents in the enforcement of these byelaws and carry out both sea and beach patrols at Seaford each weekend during the byelaw period.  Any dangerous incidents can also be reported directly to the Lifeguard Headquarters at the Salts Recreation Ground, Seaford on 01323 895554.

Any boat or watercraft user who is acting dangerously or operating within a restricted area will be advised accordingly by the lifeguards and any person who fails to obey safety instructions issued by an authorised Lifeguard will be reported to the Council with a view to formal action.