Fixed Penalty Notices
You can be fined for certain environmental issues such as dropping litter, dog fouling and not keeping your dog under control if it is unruly.
We hope the fines help improve the local environment for everyone and encourage people to take pride in Hertsmere, so our parks, pavements and play areas are kept clean and safe. Below are some frequently asked questions to help explain further.
Why were the fines introduced?
The fines were introduced from February 2010 following a residents' survey in which more than 90% of respondents said they supported the council in issuing fines for littering and dog fouling to help improve the local environment. We hope the fines, known as fixed penalty notices (FPNs), deter people from dropping litter and encourage people to clear up after their dogs. You can also be fined if you don't keep your dog out of children's play areas and other specified places, such as tennis courts, and if you don't put your dog on a lead if asked to do so by an authorised council officer or Police Community Support Officer (PCSO).
Who issues the fines?
PCSOs and authorised council staff. There is no set number of fines that they must give out nor can they earn any commission for fining. It is purely part of their work while out and about doing their jobs.
How much is the fine?
The fine for littering, dog fouling and other dog-related offences (as above) is £75 which must be paid within 14 days. A discount of £25 will be applied if the fine is paid within 10 calendar days.
How do you pay a fine?
You can pay by debit card online or via an automated telephone service on 020 8207 7575. Please note you cannot pay the fine at the time of issue.
Can I appeal a fixed penalty notice?
No. If you don’t think you should have been issued with a fine you can choose not to pay it but this means you will be prosecuted, you may have to go to court and you could face a fine of up to £2,500.
What if I have difficulty paying the fine?
If you have difficulty paying the fine you should contact the council to discuss the issue on 020 8207 7435.
What happens to the money you get from fines?
All income from fines is put back into improving the local environment.
Is this a moneymaking exercise?
No. There are no set number of fines that staff have to issue and no commission. In fact, we would much rather people picked up after their dogs and didn’t drop litter in the first place.
Do you fine young people?
The fines only apply to those aged 16 or over. Anyone younger will be given a warning notice and a letter will be sent to their parents or legal guardian. If they are obstructive, evasive or aggressive towards the officer, legal action may be taken.
What am I meant to do with my dog poo/cigarette butts/chewing gum/litter if there isn’t a bin around or any way to dispose of it?
Keep hold of your litter or poo bag until you come across a bin - there are plenty around the borough. However, if you are unable to dispose of it while on the go, please take it home with you.
I know someone who doesn't clear up after their dog/has a vicious dog that is out of control in public places/drops litter/dumps rubbish - how do I report this?
Please contact us with as much information as possible and we will see if we can investigate - please use the contact details below.
How can I find out more?
You can read the following official documents:
Alternatively, you can email street.scene@hertsmere.gov.uk or call 020 8207 7435.