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Dog Mess – What are individual’s and Council’s responsibilities?

14 January 2022

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It will not surprise you that the issue of dog mess being left in public places is one of the most reported issues to a Parish Council. We thought it would be helpful to set out what are the responsibilities of the individual and the two Councils:

Dog Owner/Walker: 

  • As the walker of a dog it is your responsibility to ensure it is under control at all times (be that on or off a lead) and that, if it poops in an area open to the public, you pick this up and dispose of it in an appropriate manner.

Ufford Parish Council:

  • It is the responsibility of Ufford Parish Council to provide Dog Bins in suitable locations throughout the village and to maintain these to a high standard. There are thirteen dog bins in Ufford. However, if you feel there is a location where a bin is needed please let us know (There are limitations on how far from the road a bin can be placed, for bin emptying, and bins cannot be placed on private land or fences!).

East Suffolk Council (through East Suffolk Norse):

  • It is the responsibility of ESC, through ESN, to issue warning letters and/or fines to dog walkers who fail to pick up after their dog. Of course, in order to pursue an incident evidence is needed. If you know of a dog walker who has failed to pick up after their dog please contact ESC at ep@eastsuffolk.gov.uk or call them on 0333 016 2000. Give as much information as you can; your report will be treated in the strictest of confidence.