Dog fouling is not only extremely unpleasant, it can also be a serious health risk, especially to young children.
The Council's 'Cleanliness Strategy' which was introduced in July 2000, deals with dog fouling controls as well as controlling litter, tackling flytipping and other important measures to improve the local environment.
It is an offence under the Dogs (Fouling of Land) Act 1996 to fail to clear up after your dog after it has fouled in a public place. It applies to land and open spaces to which the public has access, including roads, pavements, school playing fields, canal towpaths, footpaths, parks and other areas. Private gardens are not included in the powers, although occupiers must make sure that when they let their dogs out into gardens, they do not allow droppings to create a 'statutory nuisance' and they also should not allow their dog(s) to stray into their neighbours' property.
Exceptions to the law
The law does not apply in the following circumstances:
What do I do with the waste?
You place the wrapped droppings in a nearby litter bin, or take them home and put them in your own wheelie bin. Some parks have special dog waste bins, so please use these if they are available. Dog waste is classified in law as litter and can be disposed of correctly wrapped in litter bins as in your wheelie bin.
Remember to make sure that you wash your hands thoroughly after you have disposed of the droppings. Serious infections can quite easily be spread if basic hygiene precautions are not followed.
What happens if an offence is committed?
Anyone caught will be issued with a fixed penalty notice by a Council Enforcement Officer or a Police Community Support Officer. They then have 14 days to pay the £50 penalty. If no payment is received, or the person disagrees with the notice, the Council's solicitor will issue a summons meaning an appearance at Oldham's Magistrates Court. If found guilty of the offence, the person concerned could be fined up to £1,000 for each offence.
How can I help the Council tackle this problem?
If you witness an irresponsible dog owner allowing their dog to foul, you should record the time, date, identity of the person concerned (if known), make and registration number of any vehicle associated with the incident and the location on a piece of paper. As soon as you can, you should then telephone Contact Oldham on 0161 770 6644.
If the case goes to court you will be asked to complete a brief witness statement and the piece of paper may be used as an exhibit.
To report a problem or to request further information related to dog fouling, please use the 'Report a Problem' online form or telephone 'Contact Oldham' on 0161 770 6644.