Dog Owners Are Responsible for Cleaning Up After Their Pets

Owning a dog brings joy, companionship, and a sense of community, but with that privilege comes the responsibility of keeping our neighborhoods clean and safe. One of the most important—and sometimes overlooked—duties of a dog owner is to pick up and properly dispose of their pet’s waste. Dog excrement left on sidewalks, parks, and public spaces isn’t just unsightly; it poses health risks, damages the environment, and violates local laws.

The importance of picking up after your dog is underscored in The Landings' Rules and Regulations, as well as by local laws such as the Chatham County Animal Services Ordinance, CHAPTER 22 Animal Control ARTICLE I §22-206.

Section M. RESIDENTS’/MEMBERS’ RESPONSIBILITY of The Landings' Rules and Regulations reads as follows:

Certain rules are established to sustain a high level of community quality and general appearance that are the Residents’/Members’ responsibility.

1. Any dog, cat, or other common household pet which is off the property or premises of the owner, and which is not under the control of the owner or handler (on a leash) is considered to be “running at large” and, therefore, may be seized by a Chatham County Animal Services Officer and transported to Animal Services. Dogs within the Landings Dog Park may be off leash but must remain under the control of the owner or handler. (See Covenants, Section 4.7, Nuisances and Livestock)
2. Owners or handlers are required to clean up after their pet(s) and properly dispose of any solid animal waste deposited by their pet(s).

Likewise, according to Chatham County's Animal Services ordinance, it is unlawful for anyone possessing or in charge of a dog to fail to immediately remove excrement deposited on public property, including thoroughfares, sidewalks, parks, and playgrounds. Not only must the waste be removed, but dog owners are required to carry a device or equipment specifically for this purpose whenever their pet is on public grounds. Failure to comply with this ordinance is considered a public nuisance and can result in fines ranging from $50 to $200, depending on the circumstances. This legal requirement exists to protect public health and maintain the cleanliness and safety of community spaces.

The pictures below were taken in The Landings and shared by a concerned resident. They show improper disposal of dog waste and how easy it is to create an eyesore for the community. Let’s all work together to do our part to keep The Landings clean and safe. Leaving your dog’s waste behind or failing to properly dispose of it isn’t just a matter of personal neglect— it impacts everyone who shares the community and can ruin the enjoyment of public areas for all.

Conversely, cleaning up after your pet helps make the neighborhood friendlier and shows consideration for your fellow residents. Let’s spread the word and encourage everyone to do their part!