Have your say - Borough‑wide dog fouling order

Have your say on renewing the borough‑wide dog fouling order

Residents are being asked for their views on proposals to renew the borough‑wide Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) that helps tackle dog fouling across Basingstoke and Deane.

The order, first introduced in 2020 and renewed in 2023, is due to expire this November. The council is proposing to extend it for a further three years, until 2029, following ongoing evidence that dog fouling remains a persistent issue in public spaces.

Under the PSPO, it is an offence for dog owners to fail to clear up after their pets or to walk a dog without carrying suitable means of picking up waste, such as poo bags. Breaches can result in a £100 fixed penalty notice or prosecution through the magistrates’ court.

The council’s preferred approach is always to encourage responsible pet ownership through awareness and education. However, authorised officers can take enforcement action when needed to keep parks, play areas and public spaces clean and welcoming.

Cabinet Member for Residents’ Services and Housing Cllr Laura James said the order has been an important tool in tackling the small minority of dog owners who continue to leave mess, adding that renewing it will help maintain safe and pleasant public spaces for everyone.

Residents can give their views until Sunday 23 August 2026 at: basingstoke.gov.uk/pspo-dog-fouling-proposed-renewal or by calling 01256 844844.