Property owners must maintain the cleanliness of their property and adjoining sidewalks and gutters, even if they do not own the pet, stray, or wild animal that is making the waste.
You can report waste on or in:
- Sidewalks
- Gutters and 18 inches into the street
- Open front yards
Dog Walker Surveillance
The Department of Sanitation (DSNY) enforces the Pooper Scooper Law and investigates locations where dog walkers often fail to pick up after their dogs.
You can request surveillance of streets, sidewalks, and other areas, such as open front yards next to the public sidewalk.
Regardless of the source, property owners remain responsible for maintaining the cleanliness of their property and adjoining sidewalks and gutters.
What You Can’t Report
The law doesn’t apply to guide dogs or service dogs accompanying a person with a disability. DSNY also doesn’t respond to reports of dogs urinating on public or private property.
What You Need
Your contact information is required. DSNY may contact you if they need more information.
Your report also must include the timeframe and days of weeks when the problem occurs.
What Happens Next
A DSNY enforcement agent will watch the location during the timeframe you provided. If the agent sees someone not cleaning up after their dog, they will give them a violation. The maximum fine is $250.
