I hope this finds you doing well. I am reaching out to all homeowner associations & registered organizations in Durham on behalf of the County in the hopes you can share the following information about the new Canine Waste Removal Ordinance with your residents/neighbors:
Starting September 14, 2016 dog owners who do not clean-up after their animals can be fined $50-$150. This law applies to any public property, public right-of-way or private property without the permission of a private property owner.
This ordinance does not apply to a guide dog, service dog or hearing dog accompanying any person with a disability.
FAQ’s About the New Law
When does the new ordinance go into effect?
The new ordinance was passed by the Board of County Commissioners on March 7, 2016. The Board declared an educational period until September 14, 2016, at which time enforcement may begin on this ordinance.
Who can enforce this new ordinance?
As this ordinance is a non-criminal offense, the only enforcement action can be administered by the Durham County Sheriff’s Office.
What are the fines associated with this ordinance?
The fines will fall within the guidelines established under Article I, Sec. 4-9 which are as follows:
A civil penalty of $50.00 shall be assessed for the first violation.
A civil penalty of $100.00 shall be assessed for the second violation.
A civil penalty of $150.00 shall be assess for habitual violations.
Who do I call to report a violation of this ordinance?
Call the Durham County Sheriff’s Office Communications Center at 919-560-0900.
What is the criteria needed to prove a violation of this ordinance?
The determination of whether there’s a violation of the ordinance is at the discretion of the deputy who responds to the call for service. The decision of whether a violation has occurred, and whether there is sufficient evidence to identity the responsible party is determined on a case-by-case basis following an evaluation of all of the facts available.
What options do I have to refute a civil penalty?
A civil penalty can only be appealed during the process for collecting it.
Where do you pay a civil penalty?
There are two options for paying a civil penalty:
You can pay the civil penalty to Durham County Sheriff’s Office Animal Services Division located at 3005 Glenn Road, Durham, NC 27704
Or you can go to the Durham County Tax Collector located at 200 East Main Street, Durham, NC 27701.
For more information, please send your residents/neighbors to: dconc.gov/caninewaste
Also, we have printed infographics (see attached) that we are giving out to communities, please let me know if you would like some and how many you need.
Let me know if you have any questions.
Kind regards,
BRIANA LANEUVILLE, MBA | Public Information Specialist
blaneuville@dconc.gov
200 East Main Street, Second Floor
Durham, North Carolina 27701
Office (919) 560-0003 | Fax (919) 560-0020