People will be reminded to use the toilet before they leave pubs, clubs and bars in York as the city council launches a crackdown on street urination. Those caught urinating or defecating in York's streets will face fines of £100 which the authority says will “contribute to a safer, better-managed and vibrant night-time economy”.

A new city-wide Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) has been agreed after 4,200 reports of people urinating in the streets in 2023-2024. Councillor Michael Pavlovic from York City Council said: “We want these offences to stop. They create health hazards and an unwelcome environment for people simply going about their daily business. This decision means we have a stronger deterrent, and a more timely and proportionate enforcement approach.”

The council says the fines are expected to help tackle alcohol-related anti-social behaviour in the city centre.

The decision comes following a public consultation which showed more than 90% of the 1,026 respondents supported the proposals.

Almost half (47%) of those who made a comment in the survey said there was a need for better toilet provision in the city and the council says it has recently invested £65,000 into upgrading facilities.

Signs are being provided to venues in York to encourage people to use the toilets before leaving as part of the city centre’s ‘Choose Respect, Not Regrets’ campaign which aims to promote good behaviour at night.

York’s Business Improvement District (BID) received 4,194 requests to clean up urine and 2,058 related to human biohazard fluid, such as vomit, in the 12 months to March, according to the BBC, citing the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

Fines of £100 will also be issued to people found not controlling or picking up after their dogs.

Cllr Pavlovic added: “People should use toilets in the pubs and cafés they’ve visited, and control and pick up after their dogs. For those who we find not doing so, our officers will be able to take immediate action with fines which will reflect the associated risks and costs.”

York, in North Yorkshire, welcomes almost 9 million visitors every year.