OF UP TO £500 UNDER NEW ANTI-SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR LEGISLATION
From 29 June, new anti-social behaviour legislation will give councils the power to issue increased fines of up to £500 for certain breaches of local dog-control rules.
Examples include:
Not picking up after your dog – increased fines of up to £500
Ignoring a requirement to keep your dog on a lead in a designated area – increased fines of up to £500
Failing to put your dog on a lead when instructed to do so – increased fines of up to £500
Taking your dog into an area where dogs are prohibited – increased fines of up to £500
Ignoring dog restrictions on certain beaches – increased fines of up to £500
These rules may be enforced by police officers, Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs), and authorised council officers, depending on the circumstances.
Many people see these issues as “something the dog did”, but the law places responsibility on the owner.
The vast majority of dog owners are considerate and responsible and will be unaffected by these changes. The purpose of the legislation is to help councils tackle anti-social behaviour and improve the enjoyment of public spaces for everyone.
This is not a new offence of simply walking your dog. It is an increase in the maximum penalty available for certain existing offences.
