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There have been various reports of visitors attending Burslem Park letting their dog foul and not picking it up. In the UK, dog owners are legally required to clean up after their dogs in public areas, with penalties for non-compliance that can reach up to £1,000. Key LegislationDogs (Fouling of Land) Act 1996: This law mandates that dog owners must clean up after their dogs in public spaces, which are typically designated by local councils. Failure to do so can result in a Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN) of up to £100 in England and Wales, escalating to £1,000 if the case goes to court. Penalties for Non-ComplianceIn England and Wales, if a dog owner fails to clean up after their dog, they can receive an on-the-spot FPN of up to £100. If the fine is not paid, the case may escalate to a magistrates' court, where the maximum fine can be £1,000. Exceptions and Local RegulationsCertain exceptions apply, such as for individuals with disabilities that prevent them from picking up after their dogs. However, these individuals are still expected to carry the means to clean up. Local councils can implement Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs), which designate specific areas where dog fouling laws are enforced. Councils may also issue Community Protection Notices (CPNs) to persistent offenders. Reporting Dog FoulingIf you encounter dog fouling in your area, you can report it to your local council. Provide details such as the location, date, time, and descriptions of the dog and owner. Councils may investigate and take action against offenders. In summary, UK law requires dog owners to clean up after their pets in public areas, with significant penalties for non-compliance. Local councils play a crucial role in enforcing these laws and managing public spaces.
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