Proposed Dog Related Public Spaces Protection Order
Overview
Dorset Council is seeking your views on renewing the Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) relating to dog control in public spaces.
Please complete this short survey, it should take about 15 minutes or less. The consultation will run for just over 10 weeks, finishing at 11:59pm on 7 August 2026.
What is the Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO)?
The intention of this Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) is to address any irresponsible dog ownership so that everyone can use and enjoy public open spaces. The Order provides clarity for dog owners and non-owners alike about controls on public open spaces across the Dorset Council area. As the Order is of a restrictive nature, it is important to make sure any restrictions are proportionate and consistent across the Dorset Council area. The PSPO incorporates restrictions on specific beaches and land used for certain activities such as enclosed children’s play areas and parks.
Current PSPO and proposed renewal (2027–2029)
The current PSPO will expire on 31 December 2026, and Dorset Council is seeking the views of the public on the contents of the next PSPO which will run from 1 January 2027 until 31 December 2029. Our intention is to renew the PSPO with only minimal changes. The current requirements are generally working well, helping to ensure that our public spaces remain clean, safe, and enjoyable for everyone.
Dog fouling requirements
We intend to maintain most of the existing measures, including the current requirement to clear up and appropriately dispose of dog fouling. Any opposition to the retention of this specific requirement should be made using the comments box at the end of the questionnaire but please note, we will only make changes where there are significant and justifiable reasons to do so.
About this survey
To have your say, the survey includes a set of questions relating to the proposal, followed by a small number of questions about you. There is also a general comments box in the last section of the survey where you can provide a summary of any other matter relevant to this PSPO renewal.
Findings will be published on the Dorset Council website after the closing date. A report including the findings from the consultation will be presented to the People and Health Overview Committee in October 2026.
View current PSPO and exemptions
Information on the current dog-related Public Spaces Protection Orders, including the listed exemptions, is available to view at:
Dog related Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPO) – Dorset Council
Paper copies of this survey are available at Dorset Council Libraries, County Hall on request by calling customer services on 01305 221000.
All information you provide will be treated confidentially and in line with Dorset Council's privacy policy.
Why your views matter
Our main focus will be to understand the public’s views on the use of beaches. We want to hear from residents, visitors, and businesses on how the current beach restrictions are working, whether they remain appropriate, and if not, how they might be improved.
Your feedback will help us make sure that the PSPO continues to balance the needs of dog owners with those of other beach users and the wider community. Councillors will make the final decision on the controls to be included in the new Order, having reviewed the feedback received during the consultation.
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