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Residents invited to have their say on proposed new Dog Control PSPO

Dog walker

We're inviting individuals and local organisations to take part in a public consultation on a proposed new Dog Control Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO). The purpose of the order is to help keep parks, open spaces and public areas clean, safe and welcoming for everyone.

The proposed Order would replace and expand our current Dog Fouling PSPO, introducing a wider range of measures to encourage responsible dog ownership and help address issues that affect the quality of life of residents and visitors across the borough.

The consultation runs until 11.59pm on Tuesday 1 December 2026.

The proposed PSPO would apply across the whole of Guildford borough and would require anyone in control of a dog to:

  • remove dog faeces immediately after a dog has fouled in a public space
  • carry suitable means to remove dog faeces
  • keep dogs out of designated Dog Exclusion Areas
  • keep dogs on a lead in designated Dogs on Leads Areas
  • comply with a reasonable request from an authorised officer to place and keep a dog on a lead.

We're also seeking views on a proposal to make it an offence for an individual to walk, exercise or be in charge of more than four dogs at any one time. Licensed animal businesses, such as professional dog walkers, kennels and dog day care providers, would be permitted to walk up to six dogs under the proposed Order. 

The proposed Dogs on Leads Areas include Guildford Castle Grounds, Stoke Park Gardens, the borough's two cemeteries, children's play areas and outdoor gyms. Proposed Dog Exclusion Areas include play areas, cricket squares, skate parks, Multi Use Games Areas, all-weather sports courts, and sports pitches during organised matches and training sessions. 

Cllr Merel Rehorst-Smith, Lead Councillor for Regulatory Services said:
"While most dog owners act considerately when walking their dogs, we know that issues such as dog fouling and dogs not being under proper control can have a negative impact on others.

"These proposals are intended to strike a fair balance between supporting responsible dog ownership and helping to keep our public spaces safe, clean and enjoyable for everyone. Before making any decisions, we want to hear a wide range of views from dog owners and non-dog owners, community groups and local businesses."

The proposed Order is intended to help keep public spaces clean, promote responsible dog ownership, protect people, wildlife and other animals, and support proportionate enforcement where needed. Our primary approach will continue to be education, with enforcement focused on those who behave irresponsibly or fail to control their dogs appropriately.

You can give feedback via the online consultation.

The consultation closes at 11.59pm on Tuesday 1 December 2026.

Published on: 4 November 2026