Fact brief: Is it illegal to walk on the dunes at Footbridge Beach in Ogunquit?

PORTLAND PRESS HERALD • September 22, 2026

Yes. Ogunquit’s beach ordinance prohibits people from entering restricted areas, including dunes. The rule covers Footbridge Beach, which lies within the ordinance’s definition of Ogunquit Beach. Violations carry a minimum $200 fine. Ogunquit’s 2024 comprehensive plan says its dunes buffer the coast from wind, waves and flooding, replenish beach sand, provide wildlife habitat and help protect the Ogunquit River estuary. Other southern Maine communities have similar rules.