WESTPORT — A sure sign of fall’s return: Dogs are allowed on Compo Beach, as long as they are accompanied by their humans, as of Friday, Oct. 1.

The “dog season” runs through next March 31, but that doesn’t mean canines are allowed to frolic on the beach without restriction, town parks officials warn.

Regulations include:

  • Dogs are prohibited from Compo’s pavilion, playground and walkways.
  • All dogs must be leashed in every section of the park, except the designated off-leash area south of the pavilion, including South Beach. Off-leash regulations are posted at the entrance to that designated area.
  • Anyone who brings a dog to the beach is required by law to pick up the animal’s feces.

Violation of the regulations carries a $77 fine.