Dog mess fines 'significant rise' in Cornwall
There has been a "significant increase" in the number of fines issued to dog owners who do not clean up after their pets, Cornwall Council said.
Seventy fixed penalty notices were issued from April 2010 to February 2011, an increase of more than 300% on the previous year.
Failure to clean up after a dog in a public place carries an £80 fine.
The council said it was a legal requirement for dog owners to clear up after their pets.
Environmental health officer Kevin Brader said: "Many owners assume they can allow their dog to foul in public areas with no consequences. However, this is not the case.
"To protect the health of residents and visitors it is essential that dog owners clean up after their dogs."