Council fails to issue fine for dog fouling in two years
Mayo-based Minister of State Alan Dillon has announced plans to increase on-the-spot fines for littering and dog fouling.
Mayo County Council has failed to issue a single fine for dog fouling over the past two years as a government minister aims to crack down on the problem.
The local authority was also among a number of councils who failed to issue dog fouling fines in 2024 and it didn't issue a fine in 2025 either.
In 2024, 172 fines were issued in Mayo for illegal parking but none for dog fouling. Just 48 dog fouling fines were issued by local authorities across Ireland in 2024.
Dog fouling is a public safety issue and can pose health concerns for both children and adults. People who are blind or vision impaired and use mobility aids are particularly at risk.
Mayo-based Minister of State Alan Dillon has announced plans to increase on-the-spot fines for littering and dog fouling and launched the 2026 Anti-Dumping Initiative (ADI) last week.
The Castlebar-based TD is to enact legislation to increase fines for littering and dog fouling – from €150 to €250. The increases will come into effect from September 1 next.
He stated they represent a strong and necessary step towards protecting Ireland’s towns, villages, parks, and public spaces.
"Higher penalties send a clear message that environmental neglect and anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated, while reinforcing the importance of civic pride and shared responsibility within communities across the country.
"Litter and dog fouling continue to impose significant costs on local authorities, businesses, and taxpayers resulting in the need for substantial public resources for clean-up operations and maintenance. Beyond the financial impact, these issues damage the appearance of communities, discourage tourism, create health hazards, and reduce the enjoyment of public amenities for families, children, and older people.
“Increasing fines for littering and dog fouling will act as a stronger deterrent. It will encourage greater compliance and promote more responsible behaviour. The measure also supports the efforts of community volunteers, environmental groups, and local authority staff who work tirelessly to maintain cleaner, safer and more welcoming neighbourhoods. By strengthening enforcement measures and encouraging behavioural change, the increased fines will contribute to a cleaner environment, improved public health and a better quality of life for everyone. This initiative reflects the Government’s commitment to protecting public spaces and fostering respect for the environment and local communities."
