The Council is reminding dog owners of their legal responsibilities following two recent prosecutions.
In one case, Rhetta Meila was found guilty of allowing a dog to enter a children's playing field in Marine Parade, Tywyn; an area where dogs are prohibited under the Cyngor Gwynedd Public Spaces Protection (Dog Control) Order.
In another case, Ian Goddard was found guilty of failing to clean up after his dog on the High Street in Barmouth.
The two individuals were ordered to pay £508 each in fines and costs.
These cases underline the Council's commitment to ensuring that public spaces are clean, safe and welcoming for all.
The Public Spaces Protection (Dog Control) Order has been operational in Gwynedd since 2013. Under this order, it is an offence for a person responsible for a dog to take the dog to designated areas where dogs are prohibited or allow a dog to enter or remain in those areas. This includes children's playing areas, school grounds and designated playing fields across the county.
In accordance with the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, individuals who fail to comply with the rules may face a Fixed Penalty Notice of £100 or prosecution and a fine of up to £1,000.
Councillor June Jones, Cyngor Gwynedd Cabinet Member for Highways, Engineering and YGC which includes Street Services, said:
These cases send a clear message that Cyngor Gwynedd takes dog-related offences seriously. Dog fouling and dogs in prohibited areas compromise the safety, hygiene and enjoyment of our public spaces. We will continue to take enforcement action where required, in order to protect our communities.
“As well as taking action against offenders, we will be installing new enforcement signage which are illuminated in the dark, in key locations across the county. These signs will help raise awareness that the areas are being monitored and will serve as a reminder to dog owners of their responsibility to clean up after their dogs.
“We will also be launching a social media campaign on the Cyngor Gwynedd channels to remind dog owners of the rules in force and the implications for those who fail to comply. Our aim is to encourage responsible behaviour and help ensure that our communities, our parks and our public spaces are clean, safe and welcoming for all."
The Council provides free dog fouling bags from Siop Gwynedd in Caernarfon, Dolgellau and Pwllheli, as well as in libraries across the county. Dog fouling bags can be disposed of in public litter bins, dog fouling bins, or green domestic wheelie bins.
Residents are urged to inform the Council of any cases of dog fouling or dogs being in areas where they are prohibited. Street Enforcement Wardens can investigate reports where evidence is available.
In some cases, coming into contact with dog faeces can lead to serious illness such as toxocariasis, which can cause health problems, including sight problems.