Dawlish News
New powers to tackle anti-social behaviour
Litter bugs, fly-tippers, vandals and irresponsible dog owners will be hit with on-the-spot fines under sweeping new powers which came into force last week.
The Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act 2005 gives Dawlish Town Council so much power, smokers can be immediately fined £80 for dropping cigarette butts.
And dog owners who persistently offend can be controlled by new dog control orders replacing previous byelaws. Offences include dog fouling, dogs in prohibited areas, and even a limit on the number of dogs that can be walked by any one person.
The new powers mean local councils can fine offenders on the spot instead of taking the expensive and long-winded court route. Dawlish Town Council will decide what powers it wants to enforce at a meeting in June.
