… what the law says and who can enforce it

At Cooper & Co, we find that dog fouling is one of the most common causes of neighbourhood complaints. If dog poo is being left in your area, it’s not just unpleasant, but it can also raise public health concerns and lead to enforcement action.

This short guide explains what the law says, who can enforce it, and what you can do next.

Is dog fouling illegal in England and Wales?
Bear in mind that all dogs need to poo and no law can stop this!

So, the question is not whether dog fouling is ‘illegal’, but whether it is an offence to fail to pick up after your dog. Dog fouling issues are usually enforced with Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPO’s) made under the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 under which Councils have the power to designate land where dog poo must be picked up immediately. Breaching a PSPO can result in enforcement action.

What is the penalty for not picking up dog mess?
Most councils deal with dog fouling by issuing a Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN). If the matter is taken to Court, a larger financial penalty may be imposed.

Who is responsible, the owner or the dog walker?
Responsibility usually sits with the person in control of the dog at the time, which could be:
• the owner
• a dog walker
• a family member or friend handling the dog

Who can enforce dog fouling laws?

1) Local councils
Councils are the main body responsible for dog fouling enforcement. They may investigate complaints, issue FPNs, and prosecute where appropriate.

2) The police (in limited cases)
Police involvement is uncommon for routine fouling issues, but may apply if there is wider anti-social behaviour, harassment, threats, or escalation in a neighbour dispute.

3) Landowners and managing agents (some situations)
Where dog fouling occurs on private land (like an estate or communal areas), the legal position depends on access rights and whether the area falls under a PSPO. Landowners may also rely on property rules and management action.

How to report dog fouling
To increase the chances of enforcement, provide clear information such as:
• exact location
• date and time
• description of the person and dog
• a short log of repeat incidents
Avoid confrontation. Report it through the Council’s official channels.

Trevor Cooper
Solicitor

How we can help

If you need specialist legal advice in relation to your dog (or cat), please call us at Cooper & Co Solicitors on our landline number of 01227 20 33 20 during normal office hours.  Subject to a conflict check, we can usually offer a fixed fee telephone call for £75 + VAT for up to 20 minutes.

DISCLAIMER

This blog is provided for general information and does not constitute legal advice.  You should always seek tailored advice from a suitably qualified and experienced lawyer.  We do not sell insurance nor do we recommend any particular insurance provider or policy.

Cooper & Co Solicitors, 19 Palace Street, Canterbury, CT1 2DZ.

Tel : 01227 20 33 20
Email : admin@doglaw.co.uk 
Website : www.doglaw.co.uk

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