Increased fines for failure to pick up pet waste
Charleston
Summary
Dog owners who don't clean up after their pets have been a persistent complaint in some neighborhoods, and fines haven't been raised in two decades. The bill raises penalties sharply — up to $250 minimum plus community service for repeat offenders — but members debated whether higher fines or better enforcement and awareness would actually fix the problem.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 5
- Last 30 days
- 0
Last discussed Aug 3, 2026.
Impact analysis
Higher fines could bring more revenue to municipal court, but with only about two citations a year, the money is small — some members suggested a roughly $2,000 awareness campaign instead.
Residents and dog users who enjoy the city's parks, trails, and public spaces would benefit from cleaner surroundings.
Dog owners face steeper fines, and the service-dog exemption for people with disabilities or visual impairments is removed.
Mentions & discussions (5)
City Council - Aug 3, 2026
Council spent nearly an hour debating higher fines for not picking up dog waste. Critics said the $50 minimum is out of line with other city fines and unfair to people with service dogs or disabilities; supporters said constituents demand cleaner neighborhoods. The bill passed with an amendment letting judges waive fines.
Ordinance and Rules Committee - Aug 3, 2026
Dog owners who don't clean up after their pets have been a persistent complaint in some neighborhoods, and fines haven't been raised in two decades. The bill raises penalties sharply — up to $250 minimum plus community service for repeat offenders — but members debated whether higher fines or better enforcement and awareness would actually fix the problem.
City Council - Jul 6, 2026
A bill would raise fines for failing to clean up after your animal — first offenses jump from $10–$25 to $50–$100, and repeat offenses within a year could cost $250 plus possible community service. Councilwoman Pharr noted some terrain, like wooded thickets, makes compliance genuinely hard.
Ordinance and Rules Committee - Jul 6, 2026
Bill 8083 would fine owners who don't clean up after their animals on public and other property. Members balked at the $50 fine being comparable to or higher than aggressive-dog penalties, and the bill was continued.
City Council - Jun 15, 2026
A new bill would require pet owners to pick up after their animals on public and other property, with fines attached. It's headed to the Ordinance and Rules Committee.
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