Poop disposal ordinance unlikely any time soon

At a recent Duluth City Council work session, council members were made aware of complaints from residents concerned about animal waste not being properly disposed of by pet owners on public streets, sidewalks and walking paths.

City staff conducted research of surrounding municipalities wand found Sandy Springs, Brookhaven and Decatur have language in their code which addresses disposal of animal waste along with language for police to cite if proof is provided.

Suggested language could be: “It shall be unlawful for any dog owners to leave any feces left by their dog or other pet within their custody and control on side- walks, gutters, streets, lots, public parks, or other public areas and public properties. Dog Animal waste should be immediately removed by placing it in a closed or sealed container and disposing it in a trash receptacle, sanitary disposal unit, or other closed or sealed refuse container. The only exclusion applies to subsection shall not be enforced against visually impaired individuals using a guide dog.”

The City Council requested that more public information be done before pursuing an ordinance that could be difficult to enforce.