Fly tipping
Fly tipping and the law
Any information provided to us will be kept confidential
- Fly-tipping is a criminal offence punishable by a fine of up to £50,000 or 12 months imprisonment if convicted in a Magistrates' Court. The offence can attract an unlimited fine and up to 5 years imprisonment if convicted in a Crown Court.
- Fly-tipping is illegal. We will name and shame anyone prosecuted for fly-tipping
- Even if you pay a man with a van to take away your rubbish and they fly tip it, or you leave waste out for scrap metal and they fly tip it, you can still face penalties of up to £5,000 - be sure to check that any person removing your waste for you carries a waste carriers license. You can do so by emailing enquiries@environment-agency.gov.uk
Reporting fly tipping
- In order for us to be able to prosecute effectively, we need your help. Witness statements and information given is treated confidentially
- If you witness fly tipping taking place, try and get the following information and report as soon as possible
- Date and time of offence
- how many people are involved and what they look like
- what has been tipped - how much and what it looks like
- details of any vehicles involved including make, colour and registration number if possible
If you find fly tipping
- Don't touch the waste - it may contain syringes, toxic chemicals or other hazardous substances
- Don't disturb the site - there may be evidence that could help identify the fly-tippers and lead to their prosecution
- Visually try to work out what the waste consists of and how much there is
- Make a note of the day, date and time you saw the tipping, its exact location and whether it’s in or near water
- Take a photo if it's safe and possible to do so
Remember that fly-tippers are doing something illegal. Be very careful - they are unlikely to welcome people observing them or taking notes or photographs.
Last updated Tuesday, 28th June 2016
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