London council considers introducing dog controls

Hammersmith and Fulham Council, in London, is considering introducing a Public Space Protection Order that would last for three years and cover all outdoor public areas of land within the borough.

The council said it was considering bringing in the requirement after “concerns from residents about the behaviour of some dogs and irresponsible dog owners”.

It added that issues of dog control had or was likely to have had “detrimental effect on the quality of life of those in the locality”.

The order would see dogs banned from certain areas in the borough, including children’s playgrounds, and see the introduction of a ‘dogs on leads’ order which would require people to keep animals on leads in certain areas.

Other proposed powers would allow council officials to order dogs be put on leads if they are being disruptive and a ‘specified maximum’ order to allow for fines to those walking more than the maximum number of permitted dogs at a time.

Anyone found committing an offence will have 14 days to pay the fixed penalty of £100 – £60 if paid within 7 days – or they may be prosecuted.

A consultation on the proposed rules ends on 15 January 2023.