October 19, 2016 2.35 pm This story is over 89 months old

Boston councillors approve doubling of dog fouling fines

Tougher new rules to get dog owners to clean up after their pets have been approved by Boston Borough Council. From February 1, 2017, it will be an offence in Boston borough if a dog walker cannot show that they have with them the means to clean up after their dog. The fine for failing…

Tougher new rules to get dog owners to clean up after their pets have been approved by Boston Borough Council.

From February 1, 2017, it will be an offence in Boston borough if a dog walker cannot show that they have with them the means to clean up after their dog.

The fine for failing to clean up after your dog will also be doubled from £50 to £100.

Dog owners could also be fined £100 for allowing their dog into an enclosed children’s play area or refusing to put a dangerous or nuisance dog on a lead.

The new powers to control dogs are being introduced under the Anti-social Behaviour Crime and Policing Act 2014 which allows councils to create a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO).

Public consultation showed that 90% were in favour of it being an offence for dog walkers not to carry a bag or the means at all times to clean up after their dog. And 74% agreed the fine should be £100.

Councillor Aaron Spencer said the council was getting tough because it now could.

He said he had received many requests in his ward from residents for more action against those who failed to clean up after their pets.

Councillor Michael Brookes, cabinet member with responsibility for waste services, said: “The only people this control will affect are irresponsible dog owners who do not clean up or have consideration for others.”

Dog poo bags are available for free from Boston Borough Council’s Municipal Buildings offices.