Councils across England and Wales are being given the power to issue significantly higher fixed penalties for certain anti-social behaviour offences, including some breaches of local dog control rules.
The change comes under the Crime and Policing Act 2026, which increases the maximum Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN) available for breaches of Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs) and Community Protection Notices from £100 to £500.
The legislation has attracted attention from dog owners after reports highlighted the potential impact on offences such as dog fouling, failing to keep a dog on a lead where required, and taking dogs into prohibited areas. However, the new law does not introduce new dog control offences.
Instead, it increases the maximum penalty available where local restrictions already exist.
Public Spaces Protection Orders have been used by councils since 2014 to address issues that have a negative impact on local communities. Many authorities use these powers to manage dog-related activities in parks, beaches and other public spaces.
What has changed?
The Crime and Policing Act 2026 raises the upper limit for Fixed Penalty Notices issued for certain anti-social behaviour offences from £100 to £500.
The Government says the change is intended to strengthen enforcement powers and provide a greater deterrent against behaviour that negatively affects local communities.
The legislation also requires the Home Secretary to publish guidance on the use of these penalties, including factors that should be considered when deciding whether a Fixed Penalty Notice is appropriate.
While £500 is the figure attracting headlines, it represents the maximum penalty available under the legislation. Local authorities will continue to determine how enforcement is carried out within their own areas.
Which dog-related rules could be affected?
The changes may apply where a council has dog-related Public Spaces Protection Orders in place.
Depending on the location, these restrictions may include:
- Dog fouling.
- Dogs being required to remain on a lead in designated areas.
- Failing to place a dog on a lead when directed by an authorised officer.
- Taking dogs into areas where dogs are prohibited.
- Seasonal dog restrictions on beaches.
- Other locally adopted dog control measures.
The specific rules vary between local authorities, meaning restrictions in one town or park may differ from those in neighbouring areas.
No new dog laws have been introduced
One of the biggest misconceptions surrounding the legislation is that new dog laws are being introduced.
The Crime and Policing Act 2026 does not create new dog control offences. Instead, it increases the maximum Fixed Penalty Notice available for breaches of existing local restrictions.
Most of the dog-related offences being discussed have already been enforceable for several years through Public Spaces Protection Orders.
For many dog guardians, the practical rules they are expected to follow will remain exactly the same.
How are dog control rules enforced?
Public Spaces Protection Orders can be enforced by authorised local authority officers. In some circumstances, police officers and Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) may also have enforcement powers.
Councils are responsible for deciding which restrictions apply within their areas and how those restrictions are communicated to the public.
Many local authorities publish details of their dog control orders online and display signage in affected parks, beaches and public spaces.
What this means for dog guardians
For responsible dog guardians, the legislation is unlikely to change everyday dog walking routines.
However, the increase in the maximum penalty serves as a reminder that local dog control rules can vary considerably between locations.
Dog guardians visiting unfamiliar beaches, parks or public spaces may wish to check local authority websites before travelling, particularly during seasonal periods when additional restrictions may be in place.
Understanding local rules and following any signage remains the simplest way to avoid enforcement action.
Frequently asked questions
Will every dog-related offence now result in a £500 fine?
No. The legislation increases the maximum Fixed Penalty Notice available for certain offences. Councils decide how penalties are applied locally and may issue lower penalties depending on the circumstances.
Are councils introducing new dog control rules?
The legislation itself does not introduce new dog control rules. It increases the maximum penalty available where local restrictions already exist.
Does this apply to dog fouling?
Yes. Dog fouling is one of the issues commonly covered by Public Spaces Protection Orders and may be subject to the higher maximum penalties where local enforcement powers apply.
Does this apply everywhere in the UK?
The legislation applies in England and Wales. However, dog control measures are often set locally, meaning rules can vary between council areas.
How can I find out what restrictions apply where I walk my dog?
Most councils publish Public Spaces Protection Orders and dog control information on their websites. Signage is also commonly displayed in areas where restrictions apply.
What is a Public Spaces Protection Order?
A Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) is a power available to local authorities that allows restrictions to be placed on activities within specific public areas where those activities are considered detrimental to the local community.
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