Dog fouling information
We have adopted the Dogs (Fouling of Land) Act
1996 to cover all open spaces accessible to the public in the
Peterborough area. An offence is committed if an owner fails
to clean up their dogs faeces immediately. Being unaware of,
or unequipped to clean up fouling, is not a reasonable excuse under
the law.
The maximum fine for someone who fails to remove their dog
faeces is £1000, a fixed penalty scheme is in force with a fine of
£50. The issuing of fixed penalty tickets is delegated to
certain council staff and authorised officers who can demand the
name and address of an offender. If the details are not given then
that is a further offence.
The dog warden service can patrol areas and if notified of
specific days/times when the offence takes place will patrol at
these particular times (if within normal working hours). If
the complainant knows the name and address of the owner of the
dog, the dog warden will visit the premises or send a
letter. 'No fouling' notices can be fixed to local lamp
posts. City Services can arrange to clear the fouling.
Fouling signs are in place across Peterborough warning
of the act although lack of signs on designated land is not a
reasonable excuse. Any suitable bag can be used. This should be
disposed of in a dog fouling bin or a small amount can be deposited
in the normal domestic black bin.