Dogs

Introduction

This guide is intended as an introduction to responsible dog ownership in the South Hams. It covers topics including lost and stray dogs, dog fouling, dogs on leads and dog exclusion areas.

Parts of the South Hams are covered by a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) relating to dogs, which you can download in full below. 

A PSPO is an order under the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014. It specifies things like

  • areas where you must have your dog on a lead
  • areas where you cannot take your dog
  • clearing up after your dog

If you ignore a PSPO, you can be fined.

The PSPO came into effect in 2024 and will be reviewed in 2027.