17 December 2007 14:59
A policeman has told me that I could receive an on-the-spot fine if my horse leaves droppings on the road or bridleway. Is this correct?
Answer
By Your Horse
Equine solicitor Belinda Walkinshaw advises…
Litter covers a wide range of rubbish including wrappers, cans, bottles, packaging and food. However, natural matter isn’t classed as litter, but as refuse. Animal droppings could only be defined as refuse if the Secretary of State for the Environment passed new legislation. At the moment, the only droppings defined as refuse are dog faeces so an on-the-spot fine is unlikely if your horse leaves droppings. Write to your local constabulary and ask them to clarify the position.