Dog owners across England and Wales are being alerted to a costly mistake that could see them hit with an immediate financial penalty during their daily walks. Failing to clean up after your pet can now result in an on-the-spot fine of £100, under rules enforced by local authorities.
The Health Hazard and Legal Responsibility
With an estimated 13 million dogs in the UK, the issue of dog waste is a significant public health concern. The charity Keep Britain Tidy has emphasised that dog fouling is not merely unpleasant but poses a real danger. It can cause toxocariasis, a serious infection that may lead to symptoms including nausea, asthma, dizziness, and in severe cases, blindness or seizures.
While the majority of owners are responsible, the actions of a minority create a widespread problem. The rules are enforced through Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs), which have replaced the old Dog Control Orders. These orders grant councils the power to issue fixed penalty notices for specific offences in designated public areas.
What Public Spaces Protection Orders Mean for You
In areas covered by a PSPO, dog owners must adhere to a set of requirements. The most well-known is the obligation to clear up after your dog immediately. However, the orders can also mandate that you:
- Keep your dog on a lead at all times.
- Put your dog on a lead if instructed by a police officer, PCSO, or council official.
- Restrict your dog from entering certain zones, such as children's play areas or sports pitches.
- Carry a poop scoop and disposable bags whenever you are out with your dog.
- Limit the number of dogs you walk (a rule that also applies to professional dog walkers).
Local councils are required to clearly signpost areas where PSPOs are in effect and must publish details of new orders on their websites.
The Financial Consequences of Ignoring the Rules
The immediate penalty for breaching a PSPO is a £100 Fixed Penalty Notice. This can be issued on the spot by an authorised officer. However, if the matter is escalated to court, the fine can increase dramatically to a maximum of £1,000.
Residents who witness dog fouling are encouraged to report it directly to their local council. This helps authorities target problem areas and enforce the rules designed to keep public spaces clean and safe for everyone.
The message from officials is clear: owning a dog brings joy but also serious responsibilities. Ensuring you clean up after your pet is not only a matter of civic duty but a legal requirement with direct financial repercussions for those who choose to ignore it.
