THE penalty for allowing dog fouling in the district has now been doubled by the government in a bid to encourage irresponsible dog owners to clean up after their pets.
The fine was originally set at £25 but, as of last Monday this has been increased to £50 with the revenue from these fines going directly to central government.
East Hampshire District Council has been issuing fixed penalty fines under the Dogs (Fouling of Land) Act 1996 for the last four years.
People who are caught failing to clean up after their dogs in public areas by an authorised officer are given the option to pay the fixed penalty within 14 days or face legal action under the act.
ÒMost owners are very responsible,Ó said Liz Mould, the EHDC dog warden. ÒDuring our regular patrols of the district, we see the majority cleaning up after their dogs or carrying bags with which to do so.
ÒThe problems are caused by an irresponsible minority; hopefully the increased fines will act as a deterrent.Ó
Of approximately 50 fixed penalty notices which have been issued over the past four years, only four people failed to pay and were successfully prosecuted.
News of the increase in fines coincides with EHDCÕs own recent look at the problem in East Hampshire.
Special themed discussions were held at community committees in a bid to find a new way forward and tackle the problem.
Members of the public are urged to assist the dog wardens in their duties by reporting known offenders.
Anyone requiring more information on the Act should contact the dog wardens on 01730 234318 or 234319.