Residents in Overton are being urged to pick up after their pets as incidents of dog fouling have seen a noticeable increase in recent weeks. The issue has prompted fresh warnings from Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, which says it will be stepping up enforcement to tackle the problem head-on.
A Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) is already in force across the borough. This means it is a criminal offence for anyone in charge of a dog to fail to clean up after it fouls in a public place. But the rules go further — if you’re walking your dog and don’t have a suitable means to clean up, like dog poo bags, you could also be committing an offence.
Offenders can be issued with an on-the-spot Fixed Penalty Notice of £100. Failure to pay could lead to prosecution and a much larger fine in court.
The council says it's had an increase in complaints from local residents — particularly around parks, pavements, and play areas — and is now encouraging people to report any incidents they witness.
“Dog fouling is not only unpleasant and unhygienic, it’s a public health risk, especially for children,” said a council spokesperson. “We’re reminding dog owners of their legal responsibilities. Most are responsible — but those who aren’t need to know there are consequences.”
The PSPO empowers authorised officers to request that dog walkers show they are carrying bags or other means to clean up after their pet. If they can’t, they face the same penalty as if they’d failed to clean up after fouling.
Local schools and community groups have also raised concerns, with some reporting fouling near school gates and along walking routes used by children.
“It’s frustrating,” said one parent in Overton. “There are bins everywhere, and it only takes a few seconds to do the right thing. There’s no excuse.”
To help tackle the problem, residents are being encouraged to report incidents or repeat problem areas via the council's dedicated online form.
You can report dog fouling directly at:
👉 www.basingstoke.gov.uk/report-dog-fouling
The message from the council is clear:
If you’ve got a dog, it’s your duty to clean up after it. Bag it. Bin it. Or face a fine.