Just 57 fines issued for dog fouling in NI last year despite thousands of complaints

Thousands of dog owners across Northern Ireland are escaping punishment for failing to clean up after their pets, according to new figures obtained by pet insurance experts at CompareNI.com.

Despite receiving almost 16,000 complaints relating to dog fouling over the past five years, councils across the region have issued just 800 fixed penalty notices, with enforcement plummeting in the last 12 months.

In 2024, only 57 fines were handed out, a sharp decline from the 110 issued in 2023.

The data, sourced from all 11 local councils, paints a stark picture of inconsistent enforcement. While Belfast City Council recorded the highest number of dog fouling complaints – 4717 between 2019 and 2024 – its 12 enforcement officers issued only 54 fines in that time.

By contrast, Ards and North Down had the second-highest volume of complaints (2102) but issued the most fines of any council (171).

At the other end of the scale, Antrim and Newtownabbey received 1060 complaints yet issued just 10 fines since 2021. Meanwhile, Fermanagh and Omagh had the fewest complaints (532), but has not issued a single fine in at least 18 months – alongside Causeway Coast and Glens and Antrim and Newtownabbey.

Public frustration rising as local streets worsen

The findings have prompted renewed calls for stricter enforcement, with some councils now considering innovative approaches, including partnering with private enforcement firms and even exploring the creation of a DNA database to trace uncollected dog waste back to individual pets and their owners.

A new survey by CompareNI.com revealed overwhelming public dissatisfaction:

• 93% of respondents believe punishments should be tougher for owners who don’t clean up after their dogs.

• 74% said they had witnessed someone fail to pick up their dog’s waste.

• 70% believe dog fouling is getting worse in their local area.

Health, environment, and community impact

Ian Wilson, Managing Director and pet insurance expert at CompareNI.com, said the issue has far-reaching consequences beyond aesthetics.

“Dog mess in public places is not just an unpleasant nuisance – it is a serious issue that poses both a health and an environmental hazard in our communities,” he said.

“Dog faeces carry viruses and parasites that can cause illness and even blindness, particularly in children.

“Our survey suggests people in Northern Ireland are fed up with the small minority of dog owners who are failing to pick up their dog’s mess. I love dogs, we’ve always had pups as part of our family, and I understand the frustration felt by fellow dog owners when our streets and beauty spots are blighted by dog waste - I want to join them in calling for greater action to be taken by authorities to stamp out this behaviour.

“Dog waste can also be harmful to other dogs, containing all sorts of worms which could make them very ill if ingested.”

Mr Wilson added that responsible pet ownership includes protecting dogs with insurance, not only to cover unexpected vet bills, but also to promote responsible care.

CompareNI.com helps animal lovers find savings on pet insurance and other financial products.

The call for action

With dog fouling remaining one of the top complaints to local councils, campaigners and communities across Northern Ireland are demanding a zero-tolerance approach to the issue.

While some councils have increased fines to £200, enforcement remains patchy – leaving many asking whether enough is being done to deter irresponsible dog owners.