San Diego’s Dog Poop Laws and What You Can Do About Them
If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s legal to leave dog poop in your yard — or you’re frustrated by a neighbor who won’t clean up — you’re not alone. As a local dog poop cleanup service in Ocean Beach and Point Loma, we hear this all the time.
Here’s what San Diego law says, what to do if your neighbor is leaving a mess, and how to take action.
What Do San Diego’s Dog Poop Laws Say?
San Diego County Code Section 62.670 states:
“No person shall leave or permit animal feces to remain on public or private property not owned by them.”
This means dog owners must:
- Clean up dog poop in public places like parks, sidewalks, and beaches.
- Keep their yard free of waste if it causes bad smells, flies, or other health concerns.
- Avoid letting waste build up. If it becomes a problem, neighbors can report it.
While enforcement is rare on private property, a major buildup can lead to complaints and possible fines.
What to Do If Your Neighbor Doesn’t Pick Up Dog Poop
If a neighbor is leaving dog poop in their yard or on shared property, here are some steps to take:
Talk to Them
Sometimes a simple, friendly conversation is all it takes. They might not realize it’s a problem.
Keep a Record
If the issue continues, take photos and note dates. This can help if you need to report it.
Contact Their Landlord or HOA
Rental agreements and HOA rules usually require pet owners to clean up after their animals.
Report the Problem
You can contact San Diego County Animal Services at 619-767-2675 to file a complaint.
Try Mediation First
If things get serious, free mediation services like the National Conflict Resolution Center can help resolve issues before involving the courts.
Can You Report Someone for Not Picking Up Dog Poop?
Yes, you can report:
- Dog waste left in public areas like parks or sidewalks
- Private yards with excessive poop that causes a health concern
How to report it:
- Call San Diego Animal Services at 619-767-2675
- Submit a complaint through Get It Done.
Can You Sue Someone for Dog Poop?
You can sue, but it’s rare. You’ll need to prove one of the following:
- The dog poop caused damage to your property
- There was a health risk involved, like pests or parasites
- The neighbor ignored repeated requests or warnings
Most problems get solved before reaching court. Legal action is usually the last resort.
Want to Avoid the Hassle?
If you’re tired of dealing with dog waste, we can help. K9 Yard Clean offers weekly cleanups, one-time visits, and turf-friendly care.
We serve Ocean Beach, Point Loma, and Sunset Cliffs. Our team keeps your yard clean, sanitary, and odor-free.
Schedule your cleanup at k9yardclean.com or text us at 619-432-2359.