Dog fouling on your property is frustrating, but there are steps you can take to stop it. Here's what you need to know about what you can do to try and control the problemKatie-Ann Gupwell12:20, 29 May 2026Updated 12:22, 29 May 2026While nobody relishes the thought of it, neighbours and strangers can sometimes allow their dogs to foul on your property, leaving you wondering whether there's anything you can do to tackle the problem. As it turns out, there may well be steps you can take to sort the issue if you act quickly enough.‌We've all been there. You wake up one morning to discover dog mess left in your garden, on your driveway or near your flower beds, and it's something nobody wants to have to deal with. However, there could be ways to stop it becoming a recurring nuisance on your property.‌It's not the first time this subject has cropped up either. Previously, people have also complained about the unsightly problem happening regularly.‌The matter also surfaced on Reddit when a user sought advice on how to handle the situation. They wrote: "How do you deal with neighbours letting their dogs defecate in your front lawn and NOT pick it up?"Anyone who has tips how to get their (unknown) neighbour who let their dog poo in your front yard and not pick it up? I've already posted a sign to not let their dogs poo in our front yard, and it still happened."I put the poop in the plastic, left it there with a note asking that person to throw his/her dog's poop, and to not let it defecate again in our front yard." The post sparked plenty of debate, with readers chipping in with all manner of suggestions.‌One person commented: "I'd install a cam. At least you'll find out who it is."Another added: "I'd try your best to catch whoever's doing it, and confront them. Once they get caught they'll hopefully be embarrassed, and stop doing it."‌A third replied: "The only way I ever was able to overcome this problem was catching the person and their dog on my lawn. I spoke directly to the dog, and asked him not to poop on my lawn."The neighbour ran to get a bag, cleaned up, apologised and it didn't happen again. But he was a nice enough neighbour who I already knew."However, there are other measures you can take to tackle the issue. You simply need to follow a handful of straightforward steps if you feel something must be done.‌What you need to knowIn the UK, dog owners are legally obliged to clean up their pet's mess in public spaces, though there are a few exceptions, including for registered blind people. Crucially, people can be fined up to £100 for dog fouling offences in England and Wales.Penalties also apply in Scotland and Northern Ireland, although the charges in these regions vary. When it comes to a dog fouling your garden, there are particular steps you can take if you believe trespassing or damage has occurred.Compare The Market explains: "A polite conversation with your neighbour can often resolve the matter. But, if not, you can report the issue to your local council's environmental health department.‌"If the fouling is persistent and poses a health hazard, they may be able to take action against the owner." However, before doing so, it's advisable to gather supporting evidence for your complaint.You could fit a security camera or doorbell camera (such as a Ring) to capture the incidents. This provides you with concrete proof of the dog owner, along with the date and time, before confronting them or making a report.That said, it's usually recommended that you approach them courteously first to see whether the issue can be settled amicably. Once a report is submitted, it will be examined to determine if action can be pursued.Article continues belowTypically, reports should be directed to your local council's Environmental Health Department. You can find your specific local authority through the GOV.UK Report Dog Fouling page.