Kentucky Dog Poop Laws by County: What You Should Know as a Responsible Dog Owner
Owning a dog in Kentucky means enjoying beautiful parks, trails, and wide-open spaces with your furry friend. But part of being a responsible pet owner is cleaning up after your dog. Dog poop isn’t just an eyesore—it’s a public health risk. While Kentucky doesn’t have a single statewide law requiring pet waste cleanup, many counties and cities enforce their own ordinances.
This article breaks down Kentucky dog poop laws by county, so you can stay informed, avoid fines, and help keep your community clean and pet-friendly.
Is There a Statewide Dog Poop Law in Kentucky?
No, Kentucky does not have a statewide law about dog poop. However, local governments across the state regulate pet waste through health and nuisance ordinances. Most cities and counties require dog owners to clean up after their pets on public property and on any private property not owned by the pet owner.
Ignoring these rules can lead to fines, complaints from neighbors, and even restrictions from homeowners’ associations (HOAs).
Major Kentucky Counties and Their Dog Poop Laws
Jefferson County (Louisville)
Louisville Metro Animal Services enforces clear laws about pet waste cleanup. Section 91.002 of the Louisville Metro Code requires all pet owners to immediately clean up any feces left by their animals on public or private property not their own. Violators can face fines starting at $100.
- Parks like Cherokee and Iroquois have waste stations and signage
- Dog owners must carry waste disposal bags while walking dogs
- Repeated violations may lead to higher penalties or animal control interventions
Not sure how old your dog really is? Use this dog age calculator to find out in seconds.
Fayette County (Lexington)
Lexington-Fayette County also enforces dog poop laws through city code. According to Chapter 4 of the Lexington Code of Ordinances, pet owners must clean up after their dogs in all public areas, including sidewalks, parks, and trails. The fine for failing to clean up is typically $100 for a first offense.
Lexington’s Raven Run and Jacobson Park both have dog waste stations, and community awareness programs promote responsible pet ownership.
Kenton County (Covington)
Covington enforces pet waste cleanup under its animal control ordinance. Pet owners must clean up after their dogs on all public and private property not their own. Fines generally start at $50 and increase with repeated violations.
HOAs in Kenton County may have their own enforcement procedures and can issue separate fines for pet waste issues within their communities.
Warren County (Bowling Green)
In Bowling Green, city code requires dog owners to remove feces promptly. Section 5-1 of the city ordinance considers pet waste left in public areas a public nuisance. First-time offenders can be fined $50, with higher fines for subsequent violations.
Public spaces like Preston Miller Park often have posted signs and cleanup stations to support compliance.
Daviess County (Owensboro)
Owensboro ordinances require dog waste cleanup as part of public health and safety. Leaving dog poop in public areas or on another person’s property can lead to fines ranging from $50 to $100.
Local parks and walking trails such as Panther Creek Park feature waste bag dispensers and signs to encourage proper disposal.
Need tips on caring for your older dog? Try this dog age checker to understand their current stage of life and needs.
Kentucky County-by-County Overview
| County | Ordinance Enforced? | Fine Amount | Enforcement Body |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jefferson (Louisville) | Yes | $100+ | Louisville Metro Animal Services |
| Fayette (Lexington) | Yes | $100 | Lexington Animal Control |
| Kenton (Covington) | Yes | $50–$100 | City Animal Control |
| Warren (Bowling Green) | Yes | $50+ | Bowling Green Code Enforcement |
| Daviess (Owensboro) | Yes | $50–$100 | Owensboro Animal Services |
Do Rural Kentucky Counties Enforce Dog Poop Laws?
Rural counties in Kentucky may not have written ordinances specifically about pet waste, but many enforce general nuisance or public health laws that apply. In small towns and unincorporated areas, enforcement often depends on complaints from neighbors or homeowner associations.
Even if there’s no sign or specific law posted, the responsible thing is to clean up after your dog in:
- Shared yards and driveways
- Public parks or trails
- Farmers markets or community events
Being considerate goes a long way, especially in smaller communities where everyone knows each other.
How Are Dog Poop Laws Enforced in Kentucky?
Most Kentucky cities and counties rely on local animal control, city code enforcement, or HOA managers to enforce pet waste rules. Common enforcement methods include:
- Complaints from residents
- Reports by park rangers or maintenance staff
- Patrols by animal control officers
Fines are usually issued as citations, and multiple offenses can lead to increased penalties or court appearances.
Tips to Avoid Fines and Stay Respectful
- Carry dog poop bags on every walk
- Dispose of waste properly in public trash bins or at home
- Educate others in your household—especially kids or dog walkers
- Check HOA rules if you live in a managed community
Need a better understanding of your dog’s life stage? Use this free dog age calculator to get quick insights based on breed and age.
Are There Any Exceptions to These Rules?
Very few. Individuals with disabilities may be exempt from certain cleanup tasks under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), especially if they have a service animal. However, even in these cases, many handlers still comply voluntarily or use assistance tools.
In general, all dog owners are expected to clean up after their pets, especially in public or shared spaces.
Conclusion
Dog poop laws in Kentucky are clear: if your dog goes, you clean it up. Whether you live in Louisville, Lexington, or a small town, following local ordinances shows respect for your community and helps maintain a clean, safe environment for everyone.
Want to be a more informed pet owner? Use this dog age calculator to find out your dog’s real age and provide the best care for every stage of their life.