How to report dog fouling and information about other animal fouling
Dog fouling
Owners are required to clean up after their dogs, so if someone isn't, please let us know.
Use our online report form if you:
- see a dog fouling incident
- have information on owners who do not pick up after their dogs
You can report dog fouling using our online report form. You can now track the progress of your report through registering for our MyAccount service.
Registering for an account is easy and will allow you to securely access our services 24/7.
To report dog fouling you'll need:
- the location of the dog mess
- details of the dog owner (if known)
Dog fouling signs
Many public areas have signage to make it clear that failing to clear up after your dog is a criminal offence. Signage may not deter this irresponsible behaviour and it is not possible to place signage in every street. If you believe there is a problem with dog fouling in a specific location and that area may benefit from signage, please contact our team using the ‘Report dog fouling’ form above.
The form gives you the opportunity to provide further information about the dog fouling such as where, when, extent of fouling and who may be failing to pick up after their dog (if known). Officers will consider whether signage is suitable and if other interventions are required. Signage relating to dog fouling will only be installed by the local authority and will not be sent out to members of the public or parish councils.
Other animal fouling
We're not able to clear up any other animal fouling. This includes cats.
Cats can legally roam and foul areas other than their own garden. There is no law that holds the owner accountable for any damage a cat causes.
It's an offence to harm a cat in any way. But you can take humane steps to discourage cats from coming into your garden, such as:
- don't offer cats food, as they're likely to return
- plant shrubs closely, grow prickly plants, or use small pebbles or chippings to make it difficult to dig
- install an automatic spray that detects movement
The RSPCA has further guidance on cat deterrents. Please visit the RSPCA website to find out more.
Whilst we can't clear up other animal fouling, we may be able to help if a neighbour with pets is not keeping their home to a required standard. If a premises is in a condition of disrepair, or serious lack of cleanliness, we can take formal action. Please contact us to discuss the problem.