The Law

Under the Control of Dogs Order 1992, it is an offence for any person in charge of a dog not to remove faeces after a dog has defecated on open public spaces.  Officers can serve fixed penalty notices for £80 to offenders and if the case is referred to the Magistrates' Court, the maximum fine is £1000.

Dog Control Order

On the 18 December 2008, Maldon District Council adopted a new Dog Control Order under the Clean Neighbourhood's and Environment Act 2005.  The new piece of legislation came into force from the 5 January 2009 and applies to the all publically accessible land in the District which is open to the air, including covered land which is open to the air on at least one side. For more information please click here to view the Order and where it applies.

How to Report Dog Fouling

If you have witnessed a dog fouling or you have noticed an area where dog fouling is a problem, you can report it by contacting the Council or use the online request form.

To aid investigation, the Council needs to know as much information as possible, such as:

• where the offence has occurred
• address of the dog owner (if known)
• time of day the offence usually occurs (if known)

If you do not have a great deal of information, please inform the Council where a problem exists and an officer will visit the area.

Dog Waste Bins

The Council provides waste bins around the Maldon district.  Dog bins are installed in areas of need, following requests from residents or Community Forums, etc.

Maintenance of Dog Bins and Disposal

The Council will repair / replace existing bins as soon as reasonably practicable.  Dog bins are emptied weekly, but if you spot an overflowing bin, please contact the Council or use the use the online request form.