FAQs

No.  We have identified a small number of locations where we feel it is necessary for an extra level of control to be applied.  Failing to keep a dog on a lead at all times when on the land identified in Schedule 2 of the order would be considered a breach of the PSPO.   In some incidences, where a more immediate response is needed, an authorised officer can direct someone to put and keep a dog on a lead.  Failure to do so would be considered a breach of the PSPO.

Our officers and partners as part of the Town Centre Task Force, (inc. One Maidstone and Kent Police) have identified growing concerns in regard to dogs being walked off lead in the Town Centre.  The volume of people, food establishments, ornamental parks and gardens and larger vehicles in the Town Centre creates an environment where greater control is needed.

A short lead is a fixed lead that is approximately 4ft (1.2m) in length or a longer lead, held (locked) at an equivalent length of approximately 4ft (1.2m), so that the dog is under close control.  

We are proposing to reinforce the message about fouling to encourage all dog walkers to be prepared. We encourage everyone to carry more bags than they might need, just in case, because accidents happen. Whilst not having a bag is unlikely to be deemed an offence without a suspicion of fouling, it would be an additional factor for consideration, should enforcement action be taken for failing to remove faeces.  

We welcome your views and comments on the consultation proposals.  All comments received in the consultation will be analysed and a report written, enabling the Council to decide on what should be included in the PSPO.

Yes.  Nothing in this order shall apply to a person who –

• is registered as a blind person in a register compiled under section 29 of the National Assistance Act 1948;
• is deaf, in respect of a dog trained by Hearing Dogs for Deaf People (registered charity number 293358) and upon which he relies for assistance;
• has a disability which affects his mobility, manual dexterity, physical coordination or ability to lift, carry or otherwise move everyday objects, in respect of a dog trained by a Prescribed Charity and upon which he relies for assistance;
• a person who is training an assistance dog in an official capacity; or
• a dog used by the police or other agencies permitted by the Council for official purposes.

We are proposing, that for professional dog walkers, signed up to our scheme and/or those operating a licensed boarding establishment, including home boarding and day care, they can be allowed to walk up to 6 dogs at once.  

Officers able to enforce PSPOs include Council Officers (with delegated enforcement powers), Police Officers and PCSOs. If you witness a breach of the PSPO you can report it here. 

Enforcement will largely be driven by intelligence and complaints about behaviour or as the officers go about their everyday business.  

A constable, police community support officer or council enforcement officer may issue a Fixed Penalty Notice to anyone they believes to have committed an offence under section 67 of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act. You will have 14 days to pay the fixed penalty of £100. If you pay the Fixed Penalty Notice within the 14 days you will not be prosecuted.  A person guilty of an offence under section 67 is liable on conviction in the Magistrates Court to a fine not exceeding level 3 on the standard scale.