North Carolina Dog Poop Laws by County: What Pet Owners Must Know

Being a dog owner in North Carolina means enjoying sunny walks, trail hikes, and community parks—but it also means picking up after your pet. While there’s no universal statewide law, almost every county and municipality has dog poop laws to ensure clean and safe public spaces. This article breaks down those laws by county so you can stay responsible and avoid costly fines.

Why Dog Waste Laws Matter in North Carolina

Dog poop contains harmful bacteria, parasites, and viruses that can contaminate water and spread disease to humans and animals. Left uncleaned, it also ruins the appearance and enjoyment of public spaces. That’s why cities and counties across North Carolina have ordinances requiring pet owners to remove dog waste promptly from public and private property they don’t own.

Is There a Statewide Dog Poop Law in North Carolina?

No, North Carolina does not have a single statewide “pooper scooper” law. However, local governments use nuisance, sanitation, or health codes to enforce waste removal. Ignoring these rules can result in fines ranging from $25 to $500 depending on the city and number of offenses.

Mecklenburg County (Charlotte)

What are the dog poop laws in Charlotte?

Charlotte requires all dog owners to immediately remove their pet’s waste from public or private property not owned by them. This includes sidewalks, parks, and trails.

• Violations are considered public nuisances
• Fines typically start at $50 and increase for repeat offenses
• Owners must carry a cleanup device while walking their dog

Want to ensure your dog is getting proper care for its age? Use this dog age calculator to find out your pet’s age in human years.

Wake County (Raleigh, Cary, Apex)

Are there dog poop laws in Wake County?

Yes. Most municipalities in Wake County, including Raleigh and Cary, have local ordinances requiring the immediate cleanup of dog waste in public spaces.

• Fines for non-compliance can range from $50 to $200
• HOAs may impose additional penalties
• Park signs often state “Clean Up After Your Pet”

If you’re unsure how old your dog really is, try this dog age tool to help guide their care and nutrition.

Guilford County (Greensboro, High Point)

Does Guilford County enforce pet waste cleanup?

Yes. Greensboro and surrounding areas have pet ordinances that require dog owners to clean up after their pets in all public areas and private property not their own.

• Bag dispensers are provided in many parks
• Leaving poop behind is treated as a nuisance
• Residents can report violations through city services

Durham County (Durham)

Are there dog waste laws in Durham?

Yes. Durham city ordinances require pet waste removal from sidewalks, public trails, and residential properties that don’t belong to the dog owner.

• Enforcement is handled by animal control
• Fines may vary depending on the offense
• Cleanup must be immediate and sanitary

Buncombe County (Asheville)

Do dog poop laws apply in Asheville?

Yes. Asheville enforces strict pet sanitation laws. Leaving dog waste in public parks, greenways, or sidewalks is a fineable offense.

• First-time fines can be $50 or more
• Bag dispensers and trash bins are available in many outdoor areas

Have an older dog? Make sure their needs are being met by checking their true age using this dog age estimator.

New Hanover County (Wilmington)

What are the pet waste rules in Wilmington?

Wilmington requires pet owners to pick up and dispose of their dog’s poop immediately. The city code treats violations as a threat to public health.

• Dog parks and trails have posted cleanup reminders
• Fines for violations typically start at $100
• Repeat violations may lead to higher penalties

Cabarrus County (Concord, Kannapolis)

Does Cabarrus County enforce dog poop laws?

Yes. Local codes in Concord and other cities require that dog owners remove feces from public and private property not their own.

• Enforced through animal control services
• HOAs often have added rules for residential areas

Common Questions About North Carolina Dog Poop Laws

Do I need to carry a bag while walking my dog?

In many counties, yes. If you’re stopped and can’t show a way to clean up, it may be considered intent to violate the law.

Can I be fined if I leave bagged poop on the ground?

Yes. Bagging it isn’t enough—you must dispose of it in a proper trash can. Leaving it behind is still considered littering.

Does the law apply to my own property?

No law forces you to pick up poop on your own property, but if it causes odor or pest issues for neighbors, it could lead to a nuisance complaint.

What if I physically can’t pick it up?

Use long-handled tools or ask for help. Most laws do not exempt based on ability, so alternative solutions are expected.

How to Stay Compliant and Responsible

• Always carry extra bags – Store them on your leash or in your car
• Dispose properly – Never leave bags on the trail or sidewalk
• Check local signs – Park rules may vary even within the same county
• Educate others – Let kids or dog walkers know the rules if they’re walking your pet

Want to understand your dog’s needs better? Try this free dog age checker to know their stage of life and plan accordingly.

Conclusion

Dog poop laws across North Carolina may vary by county and city, but the message is the same—cleaning up after your pet is your responsibility. Whether you live in Charlotte, Raleigh, Asheville, or a smaller town, ignoring the law can result in fines and neighbor complaints. Carry a bag, clean up quickly, and be a good community member.

And if you’re curious about your dog’s age in human years, click here to use this helpful dog age calculator. It’s a simple way to provide better care and enjoy more happy, healthy years together.