Cyngor Gwynedd takes successful enforcement action against dog owner

Cyngor Gwynedd wishes to remind dog owners of their legal responsibilities to comply with the rules following successful enforcement action recently.

A dog owner from the Bala area was found guilty of the offence of allowing their dog to enter a dog exclusion area and for failing to clean up after their dog. The owner was fined £452.00.

A Public Space Protection Order (Dog Control) is in force in Gwynedd since 2013 which means that it is an offence to take dogs to designated play areas for children, school grounds, playing fields and some beaches (April – September). ⁠Dog control orders have now been extended to 14 August, 2027. 

In accordance with the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, Cyngor Gwynedd can prosecute people who allow their dogs to foul in public spaces. This may lead to issuing on-the-spot fines of £100 or prosecution with a maximum penalty of £1,000.

Councillor June Jones, Cabinet Member for Street Services, Cyngor Gwynedd, said:

“This case sends a clear message that the Council does not tolerate behaviour that compromises the hygiene, safety and enjoyment of our public spaces. We will continue to take enforcement action where required.”

The Council provides free bags for residents, available at the three Siop Gwynedd receptions (Caernarfon, Dolgellau and Pwllheli) and from Gwynedd Libraries. Dog bags can be disposed of in public litter bins, dog fouling bins, or green wheelie bins.

If you have evidence that someone is allowing their dog to foul in a public space without making the effort to clean up after it, you can contact the Council confidentially for the Street Enforcement Wardens to investigate the matter.

In rare instances, contact with dog faeces can lead to serious illness such as toxocariasis which can cause breathing difficulties and blindness.

See Cyngor Gwynedd's website for further information  www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru/dogs and you can report dog fouling on www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru/DogFouling