On the Spot Fine for Dog Owners

Dog owners who fail to clean up after their pets in a Devon city now face on-the-spot £80 fines.

Plymouth City Council could also fine people who do not to have their dogs on a lead in parks and sports pitches.

It said environmental health teams receive more complaints about dog fouling than anything else.

Owners also face penalties for dogs found in other places, including children's play areas, school grounds and cemeteries.

Claiming not to know the dog has done something will not be an acceptable excuse. Nor will not having a bag to clean up with.

Exemptions will be made for guide dogs and disabled people using trained assistance dogs.

Fines paid within seven days will be reduced to £60.