Public Space Protection Orders
Use this page to find out more about our current or proposed Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs).
What is a Public Space Protection Order?
The Anti-social Behaviour Crime and Policing Act 2014 allows the Local Authority to introduce a Public Space Protection Order to prevent individuals or groups from committing anti-social behaviour in specific areas.
An Order can be used to address persistent, continuing and unreasonable behaviour and can also be used as a preventative measure for anti-social behaviour that is likely to occur within a designated area. Public Space Protection Orders are designed to ensure that the law-abiding majority can use and enjoy public spaces without experiencing ASB and they apply to everyone.
How are they used?
Public Space Protection Orders impose prohibitions or restrictions on activities in a specified area.
Powers to Enforce
Authorised Officers can enforce these prohibitions and the penalty for breaching the Order is as follows:
- Breach of a PSPO is a criminal offence subject to, up to a level three fine on prosecution (up to £1,000).
- A Fixed Penalty Notice can be issued for £100
- Payment of the Fixed Penalty Notice discharges liability to conviction for the offence.
- The Police will work in partnership with the Council to ensure the effective enforcement of a proposed PSPO.
Requirements of the PSPO
A person who is believed to have engaged in a breach of an Order is required to give their name and address to a police officer, police community support officer or other authorised person designated by the council.
Duration of a PSPO
The duration of a PSPO can be up to 3 years at which time they are reviewed, and a decision will be made about whether the PSPO is still fit for purpose. At this time, an application to extend or vary an application can be made.
Current Public Space Protection Orders
Pony and Trap Racing and Time Trials
West Oxfordshire District Council Executive approved the Public Space Protection Order 2025 on 17 December 2025. The Order begins on 1 January 2026 and will remain in place for three years.
This Order prohibits the use of pony and trap carriages for racing and time trials on a specified section of the A40 that extends from Downs Road Bridge in Witney to Asthall roundabout, Burford.
Any person who attempts to obstruct an authorised person in carrying out their duties under this Public Space Protection Order shall be committing an offence. Obstruction includes, but is not limited to, giving false information, physically obstructing an Authorised Person, and refusing to comply with any reasonable instruction given to ensure compliance with the PSPO.
The Order can be viewed below:
Pony and Trap PSPO 2025