Dog owners across England could face on-the-spot fines of up to £500 from June 29, under expanded council powers linked to new public space enforcement rules. The changes form part of updated legislation giving local authorities stronger tools to deal with antisocial behaviour and rule breaches in public areas.
Councils Gain Power To Issue Higher Dog Walking Fines
Under the updated framework, councils will be able to issue Fixed Penalty Notices of up to £500 for breaches of Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs) and Community Protection Notices (CPNs). This represents a significant increase from the previous maximum of £100.
The Crime and Policing Act 2026 allows local authorities to set higher penalties depending on local enforcement needs, particularly in cases involving dog fouling, uncontrolled pets, and other nuisance behaviour in public spaces.
Dog Control Rules Under Public Spaces Protection Orders
Public Spaces Protection Orders already give councils the power to enforce specific rules on dog owners in designated areas. These can include requirements to carry waste bags, keep dogs on leads in certain locations, and prevent access to restricted areas.
Common restrictions include rules requiring owners to clean up after their dogs, control their pets in public parks, and follow instructions from authorised officers where dogs are causing disruption or nuisance behaviour.
Where Dog Restrictions Can Apply
Dog Control PSPOs can apply to a range of public spaces, including sports pitches, children’s play areas, cemeteries and other designated recreational sites. In some cases, dogs may be required to be kept on leads or excluded entirely from certain areas.
Councils introduce these restrictions after consultation with police, local community representatives and the Police and Crime Commissioner. Enforcement can be carried out by council officers, police officers, or authorised community support staff.
Purpose Of The New Enforcement Powers
According to industry officials, the updated legislation is intended to strengthen councils’ ability to tackle issues such as dog fouling, antisocial behaviour, and public nuisance incidents. Supporters of the changes say higher fines are designed to improve compliance with existing rules, while ensuring councils have more flexibility in enforcing local regulations.
However, authorities have stressed that the higher penalty level is not automatic, and each council will decide how and when to apply the increased fines based on local policy.
What Dog Owners Need To Know
Dog owners are being advised to check local council rules before visiting parks, beaches, or recreational areas, as PSPO conditions can vary depending on location. Failure to comply with posted restrictions could result in immediate financial penalties under the updated system.
With the changes coming into force from June 29, enforcement is expected to vary across England as councils begin implementing the new penalty framework.
