Bag Mandate for Poo Problems: Duisburg Enforces Dog Owners to Carry Waste Bags
Introducing Canine Bag Fee in Duisburg: Dog Owners Now Required to Pay for Plastic Bag Usage
By Marcus Böhm
Dog owners in Duisburg are set to feel the leash tighten as the city introduces a new rule mandating the carrying of waste bags while walking their furry friends. This move comes as a response to escalating complaints about dirty paths, playgrounds, and parks, particularly from areas frequented by families.
"" said the local authority, in an effort to combat the mess and maintain a clean city. Until now, the local authority had limited power, unable to take action without proof of directly-left dog waste. The new rule aimed at providing more muscle in the cleanliness fight.
Controversy Brewing
Not everyone is jumping for joy over this new rule. Criticism comes from the Left and Young Duisburg factions, who raised concerns about the term "at all times." Indeed, the vagueness of the regulation could render controls arbitrary. Furthermore, dog owners could face penalties if they run out of bags during their walks, a loophole the city will need to address to foster understanding and compliance. However, the city has promised to "control" the implementation, emphasizing the goal is cleanliness, not penalties piled high.
Following the Herd
Duisburg isn't the first to wrap its leash around the issue of dog waste. Other cities like Bottrop, Wuppertal, and Kaarst, as well as Kempen in the Cologne District, have already implemented this rule. Kaarst is planning to usher in the measure via the City Council in October. Since July, Kempen has seen mostly compliant dog owners during checks, a commendable showing.
The decision for Duisburg will be made in the upcoming City Council meeting on June 23.
- Dog waste bags? Controls for dog owners in Bottrop | more
- Kaarst wants to make dog waste bags mandatory | more
- Protest: Dormagen Forester hangs dog waste bags in tree | more
Footnoting the Information
- Sources: Ratsinformationssystem Duisburg, on-site reporters
- Watch our website's local television news, Lokalzeit Duisburg, starting from 7:30 PM on June 16, 2025, for further coverage on this subject.
The new rule in Duisburg requires dog owners to carry waste bags at all times, a measure aimed at maintaining cleanliness in parks and playgrounds. Another city, Kaarst, is planning to implement a similar rule in October. On the other hand, news about lifestyle and home-and-garden aren't as straightforward, but pet owners might find useful tips on waste management in their articles.
