DOG owners are being reminded to pick up after their pets while out walking.

A Public Space Protection Order is in force in the county which allows Denbighshire County Council to take action, including issuing fines against owners who allow their dogs to foul in an area of public land without cleaning up after them.

The council works with district enforcement who deploy officers to regularly patrol the county in order to prevent littering and irresponsible dog ownership.

Cllr Mark Young, lead member for planning, public protection and safer communities, said: “The majority of dog owners act responsibly and the council would like to thank them for ensuring our communities remain clean and attractive for our residents.

“However, we have noticed an increase in dog fouling on pavements over the winter months as many dog walkers change their usual routes due to the darker evenings and mornings.

“We have received a number of complaints from residents because some dog owners are allowing their dog to foul outside people’s homes, businesses and even schools and not clearing it up.

“We want to make it clear that irresponsible dog owners are in breach of the Public Space Protection Order and could receive a £100 fixed penalty notice.

“Patrols are ongoing and we are also encouraging people who witness this to contact us with information so we are able to target our enforcement patrols.”

To report a dog owner not clearing up after their pet, people need to provide a description of the person, a description of the dog as well as the time and location of the offence.

All litter bins and the black bin at home can be used to deposit dog mess which is bagged and tied and free dog bags can be collected from the council’s one-stop shops.

To report an incident of dog fouling visit www.denbighshire.gov.uk/en/environmental-health/dog-issues/report-a-dog-related-issue.aspx