New dog lead rules proposed for Bath and North East Somerset cemeteries

Bath & North East Somerset Council is considering introducing new legal controls that would require dogs to be kept on leads in cemeteries across the district.

The proposal follows ongoing complaints about uncontrolled dogs, dog fouling and behaviour affecting mourners visiting cemetery grounds.

A Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) is being considered which would require dogs to be kept on a lead no longer than two metres while in council-owned cemeteries. Owners would also be legally required to clean up and properly dispose of dog waste.

The move comes after a public consultation earlier this year and follows a series of measures already introduced by the council, including additional signage, awareness campaigns and direct engagement with dog owners.

According to the council, these efforts have not led to sustained improvements in behaviour.

The proposed order is intended to protect the dignity and tranquillity of cemetery spaces while still allowing dog owners to visit with their pets.

If approved, anyone breaching the order could face a Fixed Penalty Notice of up to £100. The proposal is supported by Avon and Somerset Police.

A report due to be considered by Councillor Manda Rigby, Cabinet Member for Communications and Community, highlights strong public support for maintaining respectful environments within cemeteries. Consultation responses showed that 207 out of 220 respondents supported requirements for owners to clean up after their dogs.

Council monitoring also recorded significant issues, including 54 dogs being observed off-lead during a single day at Locksbrook Cemetery, alongside reports of widespread dog fouling.

Councillor Rigby said the proposed order was being considered only after other measures had failed to resolve the problem.

She said: “It is unfortunate we must consider a legal order as a last resort to address these issues. Our cemeteries are places people should be able to visit in peace and dignity.

“This order is not about banning dogs entirely. It is about ensuring they are kept under control and that these sensitive spaces remain safe and respectful for everyone.”

If approved, the Public Spaces Protection Order would apply to:

• Locksbrook Cemetery, Bath
• Harptree Cemetery, East Harptree
• St Michael’s Cemetery, Bath
• Smallcombe Cemetery, Bath
• St James Cemetery, Bath
• Twerton Cemetery, Bath

Councillor Rigby is expected to consider the proposal through the council’s Single Member Decision process following review of the consultation findings and supporting evidence.