PSPO Frequently asked Questions

Are the Orders a law?

Answer: Yes. The Council is given the power under the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014. The Public Spaces Protection Order will supersede any current Orders/By-laws/Notices many of which are not enforceable.

Section 1: Offence by failing to pick up after your dog has fouled forthwith

Do I have to pick up my dog mess?

Answer: Yes, if you are in charge of a dog at the time it fouls then you will need to remove the faeces forthwith.

What happens if I don’t pick up my dog mess?

Answer: if a person in charge of the dog does not pick up after their dog has forthwith they could be issued with a Fixed Penalty Notice by an authorised officer or prosecuted for the offence.

I have a disability; do I still need to pick up after my dog?

Answer: This depends; if you have a registered assistance dog you are exempt from the Order.

If you do not have a registered assistance dog then you are still required to pick up after your dog if you are able to do so.

What does ‘forthwith’ mean?

Answer: The legal definition of forthwith is immediately.

Section 2: Requirements to carry a means of removing dog faeces

Should I have dog bags with me when I’m walking a dog?

Answer: Yes, you should always have a ‘means’ to pick up your dog foul.

How many dog bags should I have with me?

Answer: There is no set limit of dog bags you should carry at any one time, however it is advisable that you carry more than enough to make sure you’re covered for any unforeseen circumstances.

What happens if I am stopped by an authorised officer and I don’t have any dog bags with me?

Answer: You may be issued with a Fixed Penalty Notice or prosecuted.

Section 3: Dogs on lead and by direction

Can I walk my dog off the lead?

Answer: You can walk your dog off the lead in most areas of the Borough of Rushcliffe. However, there will be designated locations where your dog must be kept on a lead. There are certain locations and circumstances where you are required or may be told to keep/put your dog on a lead by an authorised officer. If your dog is causing an annoyance and/or nuisance to members of the public, then you may be told by an authorised officer to put your dog on a lead.

What happens if I refuse?

Answer: Should you refuse to put your dog on a lead without a reasonable excuse, the authorised officer will issue you with a Fixed Penalty Notice or prosecuted.

Must I have my dog on a lead in a specified area?

Yes, your dog must be on a lead in these areas at all times and it is an offence not to have your dog on a lead and you may be issued with a Fixed Penalty Notice or prosecuted.

Section 3: Dog Exclusion

Why can’t I let my dog on an enclosed play/sports area?

Answer: Rushcliffe Borough Council is committed to making sure our enclosed children’s play areas and enclosed sport areas are a safe and clean environment for all to enjoy. Due to the health risk associated with dog faeces we feel this is a reasonable measure to introduce.

What parks are covered in the PSPO?

Answer: Most enclosed play and sport areas in Rushcliffe will be covered. Other locations may be covered too and will be showing signage.

Fixed Penalty Notice

What is a Fixed Penalty Notice?

Answer: Fixed Penalty Notice or a conditional offer of fixed penalty is an administrative alternative to prosecution before the magistrates’ court which includes a fine. You will be issued a notice on the spot or through the post. If you accept you are guilty and pay the fine, you will avoid a court summons, but if you challenge it you will have to appear in court.

Where can I view the details of the proposed Order?

Answer: Copies of the proposed order and plan are available for inspection free of charge throughout the consultation period during normal opening hours at the following locations:

• Rushcliffe Arena, Rugby Road, West Bridgford, NG2 7YG
• Rushcliffe Customer Contact Centre, Fountain Court, Gordon Road, West Bridgford, NG2 5LN
• Rushcliffe Customer Contact Centre, Cotgrave Hub, Rivermead, Cotgrave, BG12 3UQ
• Rushcliffe Customer Contact Centre, Bingham Health Centre, Newgate Street, Bingham NG13 8FD
• Rushcliffe Customer Contact Centre, East Leake Library, East Leake, LE12 6JG