Hounslow Council Considering More Controls on Dog Walkers
Owners without poop bags could be fined if new rules introduced
New measures proposed after rising complaints of dog nuisance. Picture: HF Council
June 15, 2023
Hounslow Council is planning to bring forward proposals for new rules which could give it extra powers to issue fines to dog owners in the borough.
It is planning to hold a 12-week consultation on a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) that will cover all wards in the borough.
The council says that it has seen an increase in complaints about dog-fouling, out of control dogs and the number of dogs out with a walker at any one time. A previous order which covered dog related nuisance has lapsed.
The proposed PSPO includes a requirement that anyone walking a dog in any public must be able to show an authorised officer a poop scoop or disposable bag on request. If they fail to do so, they could be liable to a £100 fine and if they don’t pay withing 14 days they may face prosecution and a fine of up to £1,000.
Police Officers, Police Community Support Officers, the council’s contracted Enforcement Officers and other authorised personnel can issue Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs) to anyone they deem to be in breach of the PSPO.
The PSPO will also have ‘reasonable excuse’ clauses including some exemptions for registered blind people, deaf people and other people with disabilities who make use of trained assistance dogs.
Dogs would be excluded from all fenced children's play areas, all fenced sporting areas and the Turnham Green Remembrance Garden.
There would also be a limited of 4 dogs per commercial dog walkers who would also be barred from Stamford Brook Common recreation grounds and Brent Lea.
Once the consultation is concluded, the council says it will analyse the results and a report will be presented to cabinet which may then recommend implementation which would include the installation of signage.
Hammersmith & Fulham Council carried out a consultation on a similar PSPO earlier this year but is yet to announce a decision on implementation.
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