Councillors consider new dog control legislation

Thoughtless dog owners will face fines of up to £1,000 under the Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act 2005, as the council attempts to control dog mess and other anti-social behaviour.

However, before the legislation is carried forward the Weymouth and Portland Borough Council will carry out a public consultation exercise on the new Dog Control Orders.

The consultation, which will runs until September 11th, will provide information on the proposed orders, before going to committee for a final decision early next year.

Presently dealt with under a number of local byelaws, the new legislation would allow the council to deal with all dog issues under the Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act 2005.

This would set out clearly defined offences and penalties for offences including failing to remove dog faeces, not keeping a dog on a lead and permitting a dog to enter land from which they are excluded.

An authorised officer would issue a Fixed Penalty Notice for an offence  between £50 and £80 payable within 14 days.

However, if people failed to pay a penalty on time, refused to give their name and address to an authorised officer, or were persistent offenders,  they could face court proceedings and receive a £1,000 fine.

People who are registered blind, deaf or with a disability affecting their mobility or ability to lift, who make use of trained assistance dogs, are exempt from the offence of failing to remove dog faeces.

For further information on the orders or to fill out a questionnaire visit www.weymouth.gov.uk or the council offices on North Quay, where the orders are displayed in the main reception

Any comments on the proposed orders should be put in writing to Environmental Health, Weymouth & Portland Borough Council, Council Offices, North Quay, Weymouth, Dorset, DT4 8TA, or emailed to [email protected]