Have Your Say: Renewing Rules for Dogs and Smoking in Public Spaces
The renewal of the existing PSPO (Dog Control and the Prohibition of Smoking in Public Places) 2023 for another 3 years
A PSPO is valid for three years, however, it can be renewed multiple times. As this PSPO is due for renewal we have completed a review and hope to extend for another 3 years.
The current PSPO and what it includes
The PSPO outlines key rules for those in control of a dog (or dogs) in a public place, as summarised below:
- Clean up after the dog immediately
- Carry the right tools (such as bags) to pick up after the dog
- Do not allow dogs to enter areas specifically for children to play or other recreational activity areas
- Keep dogs on a leads when in certain locations such as cemeteries, memorial gardens; allotments; car parks; sports grounds during activities; near public park cafés, Northampton Town Centre and near schools during active hours
- Put the dog on a lead when requested by an Authorised person
- Limit walking to a maximum of 4 dogs at any one time.
The PSPO also covers rules on smoking tobacco and tobacco products, banning it in certain areas including:
- Children’s play areas,
- Areas near school entrances during school hours,
- Skate parks,
- Tennis courts,
- Multi-use games areas (also known as MUGAs), and
- Bowling greens.
Anyone breaking these rules is subject to a fine.
For further detail please visit our website where you will find the current PSPO. Alternatively you can download the WNC PSPO (Dog Control and Prohibition of Smoking in Public Places) 2022 (2023 amendment) (7.17MB, PDF)
Exemptions to the PSPO: A registered blind person, or a person with a disability affecting their mobility, manual dexterity or ability to lift, carry or move everyday objects and who relies upon a dog trained by a prescribed charity for assistance would be exempt from any Order.