Leaving or dropping litter is a criminal offence You can be fined £50 on the spot for dropping litter. You can also be taken to court and fined for littering or illegal dumping.

• What is fly tipping?
• Why is fly-tipping illegal?
• Why do people fly-tip?
• What are the punishments for fly-tipping?
• What should you do if you if you see someone fly-tipping?
• How should you dispose of bulky waste?

What is fly tipping?

Fly-tipping is the illegal dumping of rubbish. Fly-tipped waste generally consists of large items that are dumped illegally on land instead of being disposed of properly at a council site.

Fly-tipping is illegal. Rubbish can only be left at official council sites. Anyone fly-tipping waste is committing a serious offence.

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Why is fly-tipping illegal?

Fly-tipping is illegal because rubbish can be dangerous to the public, especially when the waste consists of drums of toxic material, asbestos sheeting or syringes. The rubbish can also damage water and soil quality. Finally, cleaning up fly-tipping costs taxpayers money.

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Why do people fly-tip?

Most people fly-tip to avoid paying fees. Household rubbish is already paid for through rates , but other waste is not. The council usually charges to have this waste removed.

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What are the punishments for fly-tipping?

The following punishments can apply:

• a fine of to £20,000 and/or two years' imprisonment
• five years imprisonment for dumping hazardous waste
• the driver and owner of a vehicle used in fly-tipping can be prosecuted
• the police can also seize vehicles used for fly-tipping.

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What should you do if you if you see someone fly-tipping?

Don't approach the person as they may become violent. Report the fly-tipping to the council immediately. You can also report the incident anonymously. Make a note of:

• the date, time and place where the fly-tipping took place
• what the waste looks like and how much of it there is
• a description of any vehicles involved along with their licence numbers.

Never touch any of the waste or open containers as they may contain hazardous material.

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How should you dispose of bulky waste?

Your council doesn't have to remove any large household items. For example, fridges or sofas. If you need to dispose of large items contact your local council. Your council may charge you for using this waste collection service.

If you have a car you may be able to take it to your local tip yourself.