Dog Fouling

Newham Council welcomes responsible dog owners; however a small minority of dog owners do not take their responsibilities seriously. This means that some dog mess is not cleared up and a small number of dogs roam out of control.

Help keep Newham streets clean. Report dog fouling now using our online form or by calling 020 8430 2000.

Don't fall foul of the law

To tackle dog fouling throughout the borough, Newham Council has introduced Dog Control Orders.

A Dog Control Order is a way for the council to tackle local issues and problems relating to dogs within Newham, including dog fouling. Under the Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act 2005, the council has new powers that means it can fine or even prosecute, irresponsible dog owners who breach a Dog Control Order.

If you are caught allowing your dog to foul on any open land accessible to the public and fail to clear up after your dog you are breaching a Dog Control Order and will face an on-the-spot £80 fine £80. Failure to pay the fine may result in criminal proceedings, with a maximum fine of £1,000.

The council also have powers to take action against tenants and leaseholders who are breaching their council tenancy agreement or lease by causing nuisance to neighbours and other residents, including dog fouling and dogs that are not kept under proper control.

Dog fouling is not only a nuisance but can also be a danger, particularly to young children, as it can lead to serious illnesses such as Toxocariasis (round worm infection). Dog mess is also carried into peoples' homes on shoes and the tyres of prams and wheelchairs. In surveys local residents have told us that this is a real issue for them.

What the law covers

Newham Council has adopted the Dog Control Orders to cover all land, which is open to the air and to which the public are allowed access (with or without payment) within Newham. These areas include:

• Pavements
• Parks
• Roads
• Open spaces
• Footbridges
• Amenity Areas
• Footpaths
• Shopping precincts
• Grass verges
• Car parks
• Playing fields

Action we can take

We will ensure a zero-tolerance approach and enforcement officers will patrol at times when suspect owners will most likely be walking their dogs. Those caught breaking the rules will be dealt with the same severity as other environmental crimes such as fly-tipping or graffiti and where necessary, issued with a fixed penalty notice.

Dog fouling carries a penalty of up to £1,000 (plus costs) if prosecuted through the court. It is not an acceptable defence to claim ignorance or that you did not carry means to dispose of the fouling at the time. Failure to give an authorised officer your name and address on request may lead to a further fine of £1,000.

Your rights and responsibilities

Being a responsible dog owner makes Newham a better place to live, work and stay, so below are some helpful tips to follow when looking after your dog.

• Keep your dog under control. Never allow your dog out in public unattended
• Always ensure your dog is wearing a collar with your name, address and telephone number attached to it
• Clear up after your dog fouls - you can get a £80 on-the-spot fine if you don't.

What you can do

If you have a garden, encourage your dog to 'go' there. You can then bury the mess or alternatively clean it up and bin it.

When you walk your dog always carry the means to clear up. A simple plastic bag will do the trick or obtain poop scoops from a local pet shop. Remember to take a bag or poop scoop like you'd remember a lead. Every time your dog fouls - 'bag it and bin it', or take the poop scoop home and dispose of it there. Remember rain does not wash the problem away.

If you know anyone allowing their dog to foul on the streets or open space, report it to the Community Safety Team in confidence on freephone: 0800 731 3300 or use our online form to report it.

For the removal of dog fouling telephone: 020 8430 2000.

See further information on all of Newham's Dog Control Orders here