DLR Launches Pilot Initiative to Tackle Dog Fouling in Key Coastal and Park Areas

Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council (dlr), through its Environmental Awareness Office, is launching a targeted pilot initiative aimed at addressing dog fouling and promoting responsible pet ownership across several high-footfall public spaces.

The initiative will involve the use of spray-painted stencils on footpaths in selected locations, reminding dog owners and walkers to clean up after their pets. The stencilled messages are designed to act as visible, timely prompts to encourage behavioural change and foster greater community pride in shared public areas.

The pilot programme will run throughout June 2026, with preparatory works taking place during May, when staff from the Environmental Enforcement and Environmental Awareness Sections will install the stencils. The initial rollout will focus on the following locations:

• The East Pier, Dún Laoghaire,
• Parklands adjacent to the pier toward the Dún Laoghaire Baths,
• Footpaths linking these areas to Newtownsmith,
• The People’s Park, Dún Laoghaire
• Footpaths surrounding the green spaces at Newtownsmith.

These areas have been selected due to their popularity with both residents and visitors, as well as their importance as recreational and coastal amenities. In line with dlr’s commitment to data-driven environmental management, a structured evaluation process underpins this pilot. An initial survey of the selected areas has already been completed and documented using GIS, establishing a robust baseline on the extent and distribution of dog fouling.

Follow-up surveys will be carried out after four weeks of the stencils being in place to measure the effectiveness of the intervention.

This initiative also aligns with ongoing work by the Council to improve bathing water quality at Dún Laoghaire Baths. A detailed management plan is in place which includes monitoring and investigation of pollution sources, including reducing risks associated with dog fouling. Further information on bathing water quality and what it means for swimmers is available on our website.

Cllr Jim Gildea, Cathaoirleach of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council welcomed the initiative, stating:

“Our public spaces are among the county’s greatest assets, and it is vital that we all play our part in keeping them clean and enjoyable for everyone. This pilot is a practical and innovative step to encourage responsible dog ownership, and I fully endorse the proactive, evidence-based approach to tackling this issue and commend dlr for taking this initiative.”

In addition, Frank Curran, Chief Executive, Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, added:

“This pilot initiative reflects the Council’s commitment to protecting and enhancing our public spaces through practical, evidence-based actions. By combining awareness measures with data and monitoring, we are taking a proactive approach to addressing dog fouling while also supporting wider environmental objectives, including improved bathing water quality. Small changes in behaviour can collectively deliver significant benefits for our communities and environment,”.

Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council is urging all dog owners to play their part in maintaining clean, safe, and welcoming public spaces. Dog fouling is not only unpleasant but also poses environmental and public health risks. This pilot initiative is about raising awareness and encouraging small changes in behaviour that can make a big difference to our communities. If successful, the Council will consider expanding the initiative to other areas across the County.