Benito Juárez to Fine Pet Owners Who Walk Dogs Without Leash or Leave Waste

Cancún, Quintana Roo — Pet owners in Benito Juárez who walk their dogs without a leash or fail to pick up their animals’ waste from public streets could face fines of up to 50 UMA (approximately 5,400 pesos) or arrest for 24 to 36 hours, according to Jorge Rivero, director of the Municipal Civic Courts.

Rivero said the Civic Courts are coordinating with the Public Security Department to enforce the municipal regulations when violations are caught in the act. The measures respond to ongoing citizen complaints about neighbor disputes and dog attacks on people, which have raised public concern.

Security personnel can only intervene when an infraction occurs in real time, Rivero said, urging residents to report incidents immediately by calling 911.

Fines Up to 50 UMA and 36-Hour Arrests

Penalties for non-compliance include arrest from 24 to 36 hours and fines up to 50 UMA, depending on the severity of the case and the ruling of a civic judge. However, Rivero clarified that no sanctions have been applied yet, as authorities are currently in a public awareness phase to inform citizens about the new rules.

The information is being shared during more than 310 Peace Committee meetings held in Benito Juárez, where pet-related conflicts are a recurring topic. At these meetings, officials explain the importance of using a leash during walks and picking up animal waste to avoid penalties and promote better coexistence among neighbors.

Rivero noted that individuals who commit administrative infractions can commute their arrest or fine through community service, a program implemented this year. So far, 20 people have benefited from this option, performing community work in various municipal departments under scheduled, supervised, and documented conditions.