Norwich dog owners given on-the-spot fines warning
Today marks the start of a new era in the battle against dog owners who fail to clear up after their pets in Norwich.
New powers will allow on-the-spot fines to be issued and a leading city councillor has urged pet owners to take heed.
Norwich City Council's citywide Fouling of Land by Dogs Order means that fixed penalty notices will be used by authorised council employees, including neighbourhood wardens, who can now fine owners �80 for not cleaning up after their dog.
The fine, which could be discounted to �60 for early payment, replaces previous powers which saw persuasion, education and a maximum fine of �5 as the deterrent.
Keith Driver, the council's portfolio holder for environment and neighbourhoods, said: 'People in Norwich have clearly told us over the years that dog fouling is an issue which is of great concern to them.
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'It is unsightly and unhygenic, and thoroughly unpleasant if seen in our streets and parks, so I am sure people will generally welcome this new move to issue fixed penalty notices.
'We know the majority of dog owners are responsible and do clear up after their pets, but these notices will send a clear message to the minority who don't that Norwich City Council is committed to providing a safe and clean city for all.'
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The order will apply to any land within the administrative area of the city council and to which the public have access (with or without payment). This will include all streets and pavements, parks, public gardens, recreation and sports grounds, cemeteries and car parks and all land in the open air.
There are exemptions for certain categories of support dogs and dogs for the disabled.
In the lead-up to the order coming into force, the city council received more than 1,000 complaints about dog fouling, which it says clearly demonstrates it is an issue communities are concerned about.
People who want to report any dog fouling issues in Norwich should call the city council on 0344 980 3333.
Alternatively reports can be sent to City Hall by emailing info@norwich.gov.uk
What do you think? Write to Evening News Letters, Prospect House, Rouen Road, Norwich NR1 1RE or email evening newsletters@archant.co.uk
Are you battling problems with dog mess where you live? Call reporter Peter Walsh on 01603 772436.
