As a dog owner, you can help prevent contamination of waterways and parklands from dog waste by picking up after your dog.

After picking up for your pet, be sure to place the waste in a container and dispose of it in a toilet or a place specifically reserved for dog waste - never throw it in the grates in the street called "catch basin!"

Dog Waste CANNOT be used as fertilizer! Never place dog waste near a tree or in soil - the bacteria in the waste does more harm than good and it also can end up in a local waterway!

Fecal coliform bacteria, which is an indicator organism for potentially harmful microorganisms in water, is found in dog waste. These harmful organisms can cause stomach illness and rashes in humans. Pet waste dumped down catch basins in the Boston area can get flushed directly into the Boston Harbor, Charles, Muddy or Neponset Rivers, where thousands boat, fish and use these water bodies recreationally everyday.

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When walking your dog, be sure to pick up after them but never dispose of the waste in a catch basin!
 

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 The City of Boston’s dog fouling ordinance, section 16-1.10a, also called the “Pooper Scooper Law,” requires dog owners to remove and properly dispose of any feces left by their dogs. This ordinance covers waste left by dogs on sidewalks, streets, parks and neighbors’ yards.  Violation of this regulation is punishable by a fine of $50.00 for each occurrence. If you have any questions about the "Pooper Scooper Law,"  please contact the City of Boston's Animal Control Department at (617) 635-5348.

The Boston Water and Sewer Commission (BWSC) is dedicated to ensuring cleaner, more enjoyable rivers and harbor in the future. BWSC’s Storm Drain Stenciling Program is one way that informs the public of where the storm drains flow. Contact BWSC's Communications Department at (617) 989-7000 for additional information on this program.

We need help from the public! So please, pick up after your pet and dispose of the waste properly! The rivers and harbor thank you for it.
Pet waste dumped into catch basins can release fecal coliform bacteria into the Boston Harbor, Charles, Muddy, or Neponset Rivers. This bacteria is an indicator that potentially harmful micro-organisms that can cause severe illness in humans may be present in the water.