£100 fines for dog owners who don’t carry waste bags

Council targets get-tough policy at those who flout rules but fears grow over who will be penalised

DOG walkers face fines and court action for leaving the house without a waste bag.

A Nottinghamshire council has introduced rules to penalise dog owners who “flout the rules” by not carrying bags to pick up dog mess.

New rules allow council wardens to approach and challenge owners on whether they have the “means to pick up” and to fine them £100 if they don’t have bags.

People who don’t accept the sanction could be taken to court and ordered to pay£1,000 if convicted.

The measure introduced by Rushcliffe borough council follows similar rules brought in by councils in Somerset, Devon, Lancashire and Derbyshire.

Part of new Public Space Protection Orders first introduced in 2014, the measures have become controversial, with dog owners’ groups arguing that they could end up penalising responsible owners.

Dr Ed Hayes, at The Kennel Club, said: “An important aspect of being a responsible dog owner means cleaning up any mess and having a supply of dog waste bags with them.

“However, we are concerned that these measures, suggested by Rushcliffe borough council, could see otherwise conscientious owners penalised unfairly, for instance if they have already used the necessary bags, or given a spare to someone else, as encouraged by Green Dog Walker schemes.

“Local authorities may wish instead to consider alternative measures, such as introducing a clause which provides an exemption for those who have run out of bags but are able to prove that they were in possession of, and made use of, these during their walk.

‘‘However it is essential that any plans are effectively communicated to local residents to ensure they have an excess supply of dog waste bags with them.”

A spokesman for the Dogs Trust said: “Everyone wants to enjoy public spaces free from dog mess. However, we don’t believe punishing the masses for the actions of a few is the best approach.

“Education and the encouragement of responsible dog ownership is much more effective than handing out fines.”

Rob Inglis, of Rushcliffe borough council, said: “We’re aware the vast majority of dog owners take their responsibilities seriously and these new powers are there to tackle the minority who flout the rules.

“We are keen to protect residents from any of the issues dog fouling raises. The emphasis will be on engaging and educating dog owners and only applying fines where necessary.

“Our message to all dog owners is to always carry bags to ensure you’re ready to do the right thing and always pick up after your pet.”