The ban on taking dogs into public spaces in Leeds could be expanded to cover skate parks, sports areas and some communal spaces.
Existing dog control orders, which were introduced two years ago, state that all dogs other than guide or assistance dogs are excluded from children’s play areas, remembrance gardens, some school grounds and wildlife gardens.
A Leeds City Council review of the orders resulted in the extension of the bans, which members of the public are being asked to give their opinions on.
Anyone flouting the current rules can be issued with an on-the-spot fixed-penalty notice of £75 or face a maximum fine of £1,000 if prosecuted.
Coun Mark Dobson, the council’s executive member for the environment, said: “We introduced dog control orders two years ago to clamp down on nuisance and dangerous behaviour.
“The rules have proven to be very effective in encouraging responsible dog ownership but where people fail to take these responsibilities seriously we do enforce them.”
He said reviewing the orders will clarify to dog owners what the council believes responsible dog ownership involves.
The current rules also state that dogs must be kept on a lead on the city’s streets, footpaths and grass verges next to roads.
The orders also cover cemeteries, crematoria and some ornamental gardens.
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Penalty notices have been issued to a total of 89 people for breaching orders in the last year, with 18 dog owners being prosecuted.
Coun Dobson added: “We’re confident that the orders will also continue to give communities the reassurance they need that we’re doing all we can to clamp down on nuisance behaviour and fouling.
“I’d encourage everyone to get involved and have their say during the consultation.”
The public consultation will run until Saturday, April 20.
Hard copies of the survey can be requested by calling 0113 3951765 or by emailing environmental.action@leeds.gov.uk.
For a full list of the areas of land that are covered by the current and proposed dog control orders visit: www.leeds.gov.uk/dogs
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