North Devon Council is inviting residents to share their views as part of a public consultation on the renewal of its Dogs Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO), which is due for review in 2027.
Introduced in 2021 and last renewed in 2024, the PSPO is designed to tackle anti-social behaviour linked to dog fouling and dogs out of control, while ensuring public spaces remain accessible and enjoyable for responsible dog owners.
The eight-week consultation opens today (Wednesday 5 August 2026), giving residents the opportunity to help shape how dog control measures are managed across the district.
The existing order includes a range of requirements, including making it an offence for owners not to pick up after their dog; requiring dogs out of control to be placed on a lead when requested by an authorised officer; and mandating that dogs are kept on a lead in cemeteries, churchyards and graveyards, ornamental or formal public gardens, council-owned car parks and allotments.
It also stipulates that no person may walk more than six dogs at any one time, with a maximum of three off-lead or on extended leads (over 2 metres). Dogs are prohibited from formal sports pitches and enclosed children’s play areas.
Between 1 May and 30 September they are not permitted on Croyde or Combe Martin beaches. Dogs must also be kept on a lead in specified areas of Croyde Dunes at certain times of year and must not be walked in breach of any clearly signposted temporary restrictions. More details on the current PSPO can be found on the council's website.
Councillor David Clayton, Leader of North Devon Council, said: “We know how important it is to get this balance right. The rules need to support responsible dog ownership while also protecting shared spaces for everyone. We’re keen to hear what local people think before any decisions are made.”
Residents can take part in the consultation via the council's website. Paper copies are also available at Barnstaple Town Centre Hub in Green Lanes, Barnstaple (Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm), The Ilfracombe Centre, and the Amory Centre in South Molton. Full opening hours are available online.
The consultation will close on 30 September 2026.