COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

South Dublin County Council Crest

MEETING OF LUCAN / PALMERSTOWN / NORTH CLONDALKIN AREA COMMITTEE

Tuesday, May 27, 2025

QUESTION NO.18

QUESTION: Councillor J. Sheehy

To ask the manager what is the number of dog fouling fines in our community compared for the year 2024 compared to the year 2023. Can I also ask when is the dog fouling initiative that the council spoke about earlier this year in the chamber likely to start?

REPLY:

Under Section 22 of the Litter Pollution Act 1997, where faeces has been deposited by a dog in any place to which the section applies, the person in charge of the dog shall immediately remove the faeces and shall ensure that it is properly disposed of in a suitable sanitary manner.

Three fines were issued in 2023, one fine was issued in 2024, and three fines have been issued to date in 2025. 

The difficulty with enforcement of Section 22 is the requirement for witness testimony, to report that the offence happened and that an identified person, is the person in charge of the dog. In the absence of such testimony, fines cannot be issued. The Council continues to encourage residence groups and/or individuals to assist the Litter Warden Service in this regard. 

South Dublin County Council are currently planning an educational and awareness campaign aimed at promoting responsible dog ownership. This is currently being organised for July.  The campaign will focus on key issues such as dog fouling, clear and effective signage, the role and responsibilities of dog wardens, adherence to local bye-laws governing dogs in public open spaces and promoting best practices for keeping dogs in homes.

The campaign will include public workshops, digital material that will be shared on our social media, media outreach, and the involvement of local dog owners, communities, and relevant authorities such as our Dog Wardens. The aim of the campaign will be to raise awareness, educate dog owners about their responsibilities particularly regarding dog fouling, public safety, and compliance with local bye-laws.