Dog owners who fail to clean up after their pets in public spaces can face a fixed penalty ticket of up to £100, and potentially a court fine of up to £1,000, according to police guidance.
Dog fouling remains a widespread issue across the UK, with parks, playgrounds and pavements frequently becoming hotspots for dog mess. Dog faeces can present a serious health hazard by spreading bacteria that trigger illness and infection.
Legal obligations for dog owners
The Dogs (Fouling of Land) Act 1996 obliges dog owners to clear up after their animals in public spaces, including parks, pavements and town centres. While the majority of dog owners act responsibly, those who neglect to collect the waste are breaking the law.
In a post on Ask the Police, someone enquired: "What can I do about someone who fails to clean up after their dog foul on the pavement?"
What the police say
In response, the police clarified that local councils are obligated to maintain public spaces free of dog mess. Local authorities hold the power to enforce Public Space Protection Orders.
The police explained: "These Orders prohibit a person failing to clean up after their dog has fouled. A person who contravenes the Order commits an offence.
"The person may be issued with a fixed penalty ticket (maximum of £100). If this is not paid in time, court proceedings can be started, and the person could potentially be fined up to a maximum of a £1,000."
How to report an offence
Should you see someone failing to clean up after their dog, the police advise that you note the date and time of the incident, gather the dog owner's details, and report the matter to your local authority. Most local councils have websites, helplines, or online forms through which such information can be submitted.
There are a handful of exceptions within dog fouling laws. Owners of assistance dogs are generally exempt, provided the dog has been trained by an appropriate charity and the owner has a disability that affects their ability to clear up after their pet.
Dog fouling on private land
Dog fouling on private land is not typically considered a criminal matter; however, a local authority may still intervene should it pose a health risk or cause a nuisance to neighbouring residents. Dog fouling on private land can be reported to Environmental Health, who are able to look into the complaint.
