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Dog walkers are reminded to be respectful in cemeteries
Pet owners are being asked to show respect while they are in burial grounds with dogs.
North Ayrshire Council is responsible for 45 cemeteries and churchyards across the region, and new signs have recently been installed at facilities in West Kilbride and Largs to remind people how to use the spaces respectfully.
This has come after the Council’s Streetscene teams received reports of dogs - that are being walked by their owners – being allowed to foul and urinate on top of graves, extendable leads toppling headstones or damaging surroundings and grass being left stained and unsightly.
Quote: We know that most dog owners look after their pets and are very respectful when it comes to public places. However, a number of complaints have recently been received about the actions of some irresponsible dog owners in Largs and West Kilbride. We are aware that dog walkers like spending time in open-space cemeteries as well as certain cemeteries that are enclosed and secure for their pets. However, when doing so in any type of cemetery, we would expect those walking their dogs to act in a responsible way and not treat them like a dog park.
Quote from: Councillor Eleanor Collier, Cabinet Member for Green Environment and Economy
There have been occasions recently when people haven’t cleaned up after their pet properly, and the resulting mess has been very upsetting for people who then visit a grave to maintain it or pay their respects to a loved one.
Councillor Collier added: “There are many animal lovers – including dog walkers – across North Ayrshire. I would just like to remind people that their dogs should not be allowed onto the grass in cemeteries to run around.
“You are welcome to walk your dog on the footpaths as long as they are on an appropriate length of lead.”
The rules on the Bereavement Services signs state:
- Leads must be no longer than 1.5m
- No extendable leads are permitted at any time
- Dogs are not allowed on the grass
- Cemetery grounds can’t be used to exercise dogs and
- Those in charge of a dog must clean up any excrement immediately and dispose of it responsibly.
Published: 18 May 2026