As more people and their dogs call downtown Reno home, the Downtown Reno Partnership is launching a new campaign encouraging pet owners to always pick up after their dogs to help keep the area clean and welcoming.
The initiative focuses on one of the most common quality of life concerns in urban neighborhoods, with pet waste left on sidewalks, landscaping, and public spaces.
"Downtown Reno belongs to all of us," said Neoma Jardon, executive director of the Downtown Reno Partnership. "Whether you're walking your dog, visiting a local business, or enjoying one of our parks and plazas, everyone deserves a clean environment. This campaign is a reminder that responsible pet ownership makes a lasting impact."
The campaign also serves as a reminder that Washoe County code 55.130 makes it unlawful for people to walk a dog on public property or another person's private property without carrying a suitable container or other instrument to remove and dispose of dog feces. Violators can face a $500 fine.
The campaign builds on the Downtown Reno Partnership's ongoing investment in downtown cleanliness. During the past year, the organization worked with the City of Reno to nearly double the number of trash cans downtown to almost 200. The city also installed dog waste bag stations along the Virginia Street corridor to make it easier for pet owners to clean up after their dogs.
The Downtown Reno Partnership said it also receives numerous calls each week about dog waste left on sidewalks, in tree wells and in parks.
The campaign includes signs, social media messages, and educational outreach reminding pet owners that leaving dog waste behind affects everyone. The organization said pet waste can damage landscaping, contribute to bacteria and water pollution, and hurt the appearance of downtown public spaces.
“Keeping downtown beautiful requires a community-wide effort,” Jardon said. “This campaign is about encouraging everyone to be part of the solution so downtown remains a place residents, businesses and visitors can enjoy."
To learn more about the campaign, get downloadable graphics and information, or to learn more about the negative effects of pet waste, visit the Downtown Reno Partnership’s webpage.
