Outrage Erupts Over New 'Asbo-Style' Dog Regulations That Could Cost Owners £1,000 Fines

Published on October 17, 2025 at 11:57 AM
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New ASBO-style regulations for dogs have been implemented across a London borough, causing outrage among local residents.

Tower Hamlets Council introduced the new rules earlier this month, which could result in dog walkers facing fines of up to £1,000.

A tall residential building in Tower Hamlets, London.Tower Hamlets Council has introduced ASBO-style regulations for dogsCredit: SWNS Anger after council introduces ‘dog ASBO’ across whole boroughThe new crackdown could result in fines of up to £1,000 for dog walkersCredit: SWNS Anger after council introduces ‘dog ASBO’ across whole boroughWill Kennedy, 28, called the regulations ‘ridiculous’ and ‘pathetic’Credit: SWNS

The council enacted a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) on October 1.

According to the new rules, dogs must be on a lead in public roads, pavements, and communal areas of estates, while dog walkers are restricted to a maximum of four dogs at a time.

These regulations apply to Victoria Park, one of the most frequented green spaces in the area under Tower Hamlets Council’s jurisdiction.

Residents have expressed their anger over the new rules, with some labeling them as “ridiculous” and “pathetic.”

Will Kennedy, 28, was walking five dogs—one more than the allowed limit under the new regulations.

The dog walker, who has been in the profession for two-and-a-half years, criticized the new rules, stating he would consider walking dogs in another borough instead of applying for a license.

“I know the type of people who complain about this—it's similar to being asked to go inside a pub beer garden at 10 PM on a Friday night or being told to quiet down while smoking outside a pub,” he remarked.

“These are the same individuals who desire a rural lifestyle yet live in a city with a population of 10 million.

“On weekday mornings, the park is mostly empty except for dog owners. If dogs are bothering people, that’s a concern, but they usually aren’t.”

He continued: “It wouldn’t matter if I had only four dogs. The individuals causing issues with dogs aren’t responsible walkers; they manage their pets well.

“It’s no more hazardous than a gathering of mothers with their children.”

Professional dog walkers can apply for a license to walk up to six dogs at once, but they must provide proof of insurance and experience.

Tower Hamlets Council has stated that it is currently waiving the licensing requirement for professional dog walkers until April 1, 2026; after that, a license will be necessary.

Initially, the proposals would have mandated that dogs be on leads throughout the entire borough, but these were softened following backlash from local dog owners.

Anger after council introduces ‘dog ASBO’ across whole boroughUnder the new regulations, all dogs must be leashed in public roads, pavements, and communal areasCredit: SWNS Anger after council introduces ‘dog ASBO’ across whole boroughDespite the uproar from residents, Jo Knowsley, 67, supports the restrictionsCredit: SWNS Anger after council introduces ‘dog ASBO’ across whole boroughRose McDermott, 69, believes the restrictions should be more stringentCredit: SWNS

Professional dog walker Sarah Williams, 30, was walking four dogs—within the new regulations—but mentioned that she has previously walked up to

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