West Oxfordshire District Council is consulting on a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) to combat dog fouling, which would make it an offence not to clean up dog mess in public places or carry disposal equipment. The proposed order would cover all parks, footpaths, open spaces, and streets within the district.
Details of the Proposed PSPO
Under the plan, dog owners caught failing to clean up after their pets could receive a fixed penalty notice of £100. If the case goes to prosecution, the fine could escalate to £1,000. The council is seeking public input before finalising the order.
Councillor Alistair Wray, executive member for environment, stated: "We are proposing a new order that would allow for £100 fines to be issued where dog fouling is caught, or up to £1,000 for a prosecution. This consultation will give residents the opportunity to help shape this order that could make our shared spaces cleaner, safer and more enjoyable for everyone, while ensuring any measures introduced are fair, proportionate and practical."
Government Guidance on PSPOs
Government advice notes that PSPOs are aimed at ensuring public spaces can be enjoyed free from anti-social behaviour. They are not intended to stop responsible use of the night-time economy or prevent young people from socialising, but provide councils with an additional tool to address persistent issues harming communities.
The Home Office updated its statutory guidance on anti-social behaviour powers in December 2017, following the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014. The updated guidance encourages councils to review existing restrictions and consider amendments when renewing PSPOs. When used appropriately and with local support, PSPOs can be effective in preventing anti-social behaviour and responding to community concerns.
Impact on Dog Owners
If approved, the order will require dog walkers to carry dog waste bags or other means of disposal at all times in public areas. Failure to do so could also result in a fine. The council emphasises that the measure is about sending a clear message that leaving dog mess in public is unacceptable.
Residents have been invited to participate in the consultation, which will run for several weeks. The council will review feedback before deciding whether to implement the PSPO. Similar orders have been introduced in other parts of England, with varying levels of enforcement.
The proposal has sparked debate among local dog owners and community groups. Some support stricter penalties to tackle the persistent problem of dog fouling, while others express concerns about over-regulation and the burden on responsible pet owners. The council aims to strike a balance through the consultation process.
