Residents Raise Concerns Over Pet Pooping in Society Compound: Call for Clarity on ‘Public Area’ Definition

Residents of a local housing society have raised concerns over increasing instances of pet defecation within the society compound, leading to sanitation and hygiene issues—particularly affecting ground floor residents. The society’s pet policy mandates that pet parents “scoop the poop in public areas,” but ambiguity surrounding the term “public area” has sparked debate.
 
Several residents argue that the society compound, including pathways, gardens, and open spaces, should be treated as common areas—spaces meant for shared use and maintained by the society. Allowing pets to relieve themselves in these zones, even when cleaned up afterward, is being viewed as a public nuisance and a potential health hazard.

A resident from the ground floor commented, “While we respect pet owners, the daily mess and the smell near our balconies is making life difficult. The policy needs better enforcement and a clear definition of what qualifies as ‘public area.’”

Most cooperative housing society by-laws across Indian states define “common areas” as staircases, corridors, gardens, parking lots, and other shared spaces. However, the term “public area” is often used interchangeably and lacks formal definition in many society policies, leading to confusion and differing interpretations.
 
Residents are now urging the managing committee to:

Clearly define terms like public area and common area in the society rules.

Designate a specific pet relief zone away from residential windows and common walking paths.

Impose fines on pet owners who fail to adhere to sanitary norms.

The managing committee is expected to review the pet policy in the upcoming general body meeting.

Until then, residents continue to call for mutual respect and responsible pet parenting to maintain a clean and healthy living environment for all.

Concerns Over Pet Pooping in Society Compound