Every year Maldon District Council receives numerous complaints about dog fouling from concerned residents and visitors to the District.  This anti social behaviour by a small minority of dog owners as well as being extremely unpleasant can cause serious health problems including blindness.

Maldon District Council currently enforces the Dogs (Fouling of Land) Act 1996 but is planning to introduce a Dog Control Order under the Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act 2005 which will broaden its enforcement powers and increase the deterrent to those who choose not to clear up after their dog. 

The main change will be an increase in the fixed penalty notice charge from £50 to £80 as well as a maximum fine, on conviction, of up to £1000.  The order will cover all publicly accessible land which is open to the air on at least one side and to which the public are entitled or permitted to have access with or without payment.

Subject to approval, the Dog Control Order for Dog Fouling in the Maldon District will be introduced from the 5 January 2009. Members of the public were given the opportunity to give their views on the proposed order in September and October 2008.

If you have any queries please contact Chris Quilter, Waste Management Team Leader, on 01621 875827.