Pet owners walking dogs may soon encounter expanded control requirements that would extend beyond public lands to include privately-owned areas accessible to the public.

Chichester District Council is seeking to broaden its ability to impose regulations regarding dog waste and uncontrolled animals throughout all accessible locations within the district.

The council intends to hold a community consultation on the matter, which would additionally involve prolonging its current enforcement directives for an additional three-year period.

Current regulations classify owners as violators if they neglect to clean up after their dogs, decline to restrain their animal when required, or enter prohibited areas such as a portion of Selsey beach during summer months.

These obligations presently pertain solely to publicly-owned territory.

The fresh suggestions would broaden the regulations to encompass any accessible space where no admission fee is required, with the exception of Forestry Commission holdings.

Canines would also be prohibited throughout the year from all fenced play areas designed for children on privately-owned property, expanding upon current regulations that only address fenced play spaces on public property.

Those violating the directive could receive a £100 penalty, decreased to £75 if settled within two weeks.

Tom Day, divisional manager for environment and health protection at the council, stated: “Our objective is to guarantee that all individuals, whether they own dogs or not, can utilize the numerous attractive public areas in our district without concern.

We acknowledge that the majority of dog guardians act responsibly, yet unfortunately certain individuals fail to clean up after their pets or maintain appropriate control over their animals.

This Public Space Protection Order enables us to address these concerns, which can adversely impact our communities and wildlife while diminishing people’s appreciation of our beaches and open spaces, all while promoting accountable dog ownership.”

The consultation will additionally examine whether forthcoming limitations are necessary for Chichester Harbour, with evidence indicating that dogs not on leashes may disrupt protected avian species.

The public questionnaire will commence on May 8 and continue through June 5.

If endorsed, the revised PSPO will become effective in October and remain in force until 2029.

Previously, it received a three-year extension in 2023.