DOG owners who let their pets foul public land will face fines of up to £1,000 and fixed penalties of £50.
Waverley councillors have decided to get tough on dog fouling by adopting The 1996 Dog Fouling Act, which is more far-reaching than the council's previous system of byelaws.
With some exceptions, the Act applies to any open-air land accessible to the public.
If dog owners allows their pet to defecate on the designated land, he or she could be convicted and fined a maximum of £1,000 - though a council officer will be able to give them the option of avoiding a court appearance by paying a fixed penalty of £50.
The new measures will come into effect from April 20 next year.
Councillors on Waverley's Environment Overview and Scrutiny Committee agreed to adopt the tougher measures at their latest meeting, and the decision is almost certain to be ratified by the council's ruling executive body on June 18.
The councillor responsible for environmental issues, John Sandy said: "As a dog owner myself for over 40 years, I want people to enjoy owning their pets but to do so showing consideration to other people.
"Dog mess is very unpleasant and can pose a real health hazard to children and older people.
"When these powers are brought in, the council will take a firm line in enforcing them."


