Stafford Borough Council has launched a scheme offering residents £75 for reporting dog owners who fail to clean up after their pets. The reward comes from the fixed penalty fine issued to the offender, or an equivalent amount if a prosecution leads to a larger fine.
Cabinet member Frank Finlay said it is right that community-minded residents who help crack down on the problem should be rewarded, with the cost borne by inconsiderate dog owners. The council hopes the financial incentive will encourage more people to report offenders.
Despite recent high-visibility patrols, only a handful of fines have been handed out in Stafford. The UK's 8 million dogs produce an estimated 1,000 tonnes of excrement daily, costing councils £22 million annually in cleaning. Dog fouling can also spread toxocariasis, a rare infection that can damage sight.
Similar schemes exist elsewhere, including in Narberth, Wales, where councillor Wynne Evans offers £10 from his own pocket. Waltham Forest council in London previously offered up to £500 for reports leading to convictions.
