Dogs and dog fouling
A guide to dog owners responsibilities and how you can report problems with dogs and dog fouling.
Your responsibilities as a dog owner
The following behaviour is against the law (as set out in the Public Spaces Protection Orders - or PSPOs made under the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014):
- failure to pick up after your dog in a public place
- not putting or keeping your dog on a lead when directed to do so by an authorised officer in a public space
- allowing a dog to enter an area from which dogs are excluded.
The PSPOs came into effect on 20 October 2017 and aim to discourage anti-social behaviour in a public place.
Where do dog controls apply?
You should always pick up after your dog in any public place. We have put up signs in parks and on bins in public areas to remind you to pick up and to make it clear which areas are dog free and where you need to keep your dog on a lead.
What is the penalty for breaking the law?
You could receive a fixed penalty notice of £100 for breaking the law (or £60 if paid within 10 days). The maximum penalty if you are convicted is a fine of £1,000.
How do I pay a fixed penalty notice?
You will find full details for paying on the back of the fixed penalty notice that we will issue you.
- You can pay:online
- by phone on 020 7527 2000 between 9am – 5pm, from Monday to Friday (exc Bank Holidays)
- by post. You can send a cheque Public Protection, ASB Environmental Services, 3rd floor Laycock Wing, 222 Upper Street, London N1 1XR.
- in person: by dropping in to our Customer Centre at 222 Upper Street, London N1 1XR
How do I appeal a fixed penalty notice?
If you feel your fixed penalty notice has been incorrectly issued you need to submit a written appeal, including evidence, within 10 working days from the date of issue. You can post or email it.
How do I report dog fouling?
You can report dog fouling using the Clean Islington app. Available for free for iPhone, Android and Windows phones.
Spotted someone in the act?
You can help us to keep Islington clean. If you spot an irresponsible dog owner, report them to our anti-social behaviour team so we can catch them out. Please provide as much detail as you can.
Report anti-social behaviour online or call the ASB line on 020 7527 7272.