Environmental

Enforcement of Dog related Public Spaces Protection Order to start

Posted on February 1, 2021 No Comments on Enforcement of Dog related Public Spaces Protection Order to start

The Dorset Council wide Dog related Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) came into force on the 1 January 2021. During the first month Dorset Council focused  on advice and guidance to dog-owners explaining the new rules.

The PSPO places restrictions on dog owners in control of their dogs.  These restrictions  include clearing up dog fouling and proper disposal of the waste in any open space.  On certain land dogs are not allowed on marked sports pitches or enclosed children’s play areas or are required to be on lead, such as in cemeteries, formal gardens etc.  There are also dog restrictions on some beaches relating to certain times of the year, the details can be found at the beach locations.

From 1 February if the rules are broken Fixed Penalty Notices (FPN) may be issued by enforcement officers. FPNs can be served by post if a witness provides details of the dog owner (such as their address) or their vehicle registration number and are willing to provide a suitable witness statement.

Cllr Jill Haynes, Dorset Council Portfolio Holder for Customer and Community  Services said:

“The PSPO has been made to protect the health of Dorset residents and visitors and is particularly aimed at areas that children and families use.