Dog Fouling
The Dog (Fouling of Land) Act 1996 came into force on 1st April 1998. This Act means that it is illegal to fail to clear up after your dog if it fouls land which is open to the air and to which the public have access (subject to certain exceptions).
Anyone who allows their dog to foul and does not clean up after it is liable for a £50 fixed penalty notice or a Court appearance where fines can be up to £1000.
Signs have been erected across the district to warn dog owners of this. Dog Wardens, Park Rangers and other officers patrol to enforce the legislation.
As well as being offensive, dog fouling causes serious health risks. Infection by the parasitic worm Toxocara Canis is spread by dog faeces. This may cause stomach pains, fever and even blindness.
If you witness a person in charge of a dog failing to clean up after it, you can report them by contacting the Dog Wardens on 01274 433927 or by using the online form. Please provide the date, time, location and the description of the dog / offender and if possible the name of the dog owner.
