Murray schools are important community gathering places, offering wonderful open spaces for kids to play and families to socialize. We love seeing our citizens utilize these areas for games, picnics, and fun. However, the enjoyment of our shared spaces is being seriously marred by two preventable and unsightly issues: pet waste and litter.

Unfortunately, far too many people are ignoring posted signs and important laws.

1. Pet Waste: Not cleaning up after a pet on school grounds violates Utah Code 53G-7-210, which protects against the misuse of school grounds that "interferes with school function or purpose."

2. Littering: Trash left behind after formal or informal gatherings violates Utah Code 76-10-2702, prohibiting littering on public and private lands.

(Want to book a school facility for a formal gathering? Please contact Kristen Davis at (801) 264-7400.)

Why This is a Big Deal for Students

This isn't just a minor eyesore—it's a health and learning hazard. Children play on these open grounds, and every week, we have multiple instances where a student accidentally steps in, sits on, or rolls in pet feces.

Just this week, a school principal reported a student with feces smeared up the leg of their pants, and another came in from recess with defacation all over their hands. When this happens, our staff must interrupt recess duties to clean the child, sometimes having to replace soiled shoes and clothing. Other times, it goes unnoticed until the mess is spread on classroom floors and carpets, disrupting instruction and embarrassing students.

At a minimum, this distraction undermines a productive learning environment. More importantly, it poses a health risk, exposing children to and potentially spreading illness-causing bacteria.

We Need Your Help: The Solution is Community Action

We simply do not have the funds or personnel to supervise school grounds 24/7. The solution rests with all of us.

If you use our facilities, please follow this two-part request:

1. Clean Up After Yourself: Take all trash with you and lend a hand by picking up any other litter you come across.

2. Pet Owners, Please Scoop: Abide by pet cleanup laws. If you see a violation, consider a polite reminder, or contact Murray City law enforcement to report the issue.

We ask for your support and awareness. If you see a law violation, please speak up—to the individual, a school official, or Murray City PD.