DOG owners who do not clear up after their pets are being targeted in a month-long campaign.
Darlington Borough Council's Environmental Wardens and Dog Wardens are increasing patrols this month to try to catch irresponsible dog owners.
There is usually an increase in dog fouling in the winter months as owners believe, because it is dark when they walk their pet, they can get away without clearing up.
The wardens will be patrolling in a bid to encourage dog owners to be more responsible.
Anyone caught leaving their dog to foul will be given a £50 fine and, in the first two days of the crackdown, three people have already been fined.
The wardens will also be making sure that dog owners take notice of by-laws signs which indicate areas where dogs are not allowed or can not be let off their leads.
The wardens will be working with the environmental regeneration charity Groundwork West Durham and Darlington to give advice to dog owners and will be handing out free plastic bags.
Bill Dixon, Darlington Borough Council's cabinet member for neighbourhood services and community safety, said: "Dog fouling is a real problem and the actions of a selfish few can spoil the environment for everyone."
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