Dog owner 'stop and search' proposed for essential pet item
Dog walkers and owners could be fined up to £100 for not carrying dog poo bags while out for a walk, in some areas.
Hammersmith and Fulham Council, in south west London, have proposed the new rules as part of a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO), in a bid to crack down on people not clearing up after their four legged friends.
The decision will be made in January. If it goes ahead, it would last for three years and cover all outdoor public areas within the borough.
The council said it was considering the new rules after “concerns from residents about the behaviour of some dogs and irresponsible dog owners," according to the BBC.
The proposal would see dog owners being asked by council officials to show a dog poo bag, in what is being described as a 'stop and search'.
If found without poo bags, owners would have 14 days to pay the fine, which is reduced to £60 if it's paid within a week. Refusal to pay could lead to prosecution.
Assistance dogs, those who have a “reasonable excuse”, or certain disabilities, would be exempt from these rules.
The council's suggested PSPO is also looking at limiting the number of dogs exercised to four per person, insisting dogs are on leads in places like cemeteries.
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