Crackdown on Fly Tipping

Published Friday 26 May, 2023
Last updated on Thursday 22 February, 2024

Waste carriers were targeted last week as part of a day of action to crackdown on fly tipping.

Swale Borough Council teamed up with Kent Police’s Rural Task Force to carry out enquiries and collate evidence with a view to prosecuting offenders for waste related crimes.

Outcomes of the day were:

• 4 vehicles stopped and searched
• 3 Fixed Penalty Notices issued

Cllr Rich Lehmann, chair of the Environment Committee at the council, said:

“Fly-tipping is something that affects us all. Dumping waste in our towns and across our countryside is irresponsible and thoughtless.

“Although the low rates being offered by some carriers may seem like a cheap and easy way to clear your waste, it could land you with a large fine.

“Remember, if using a waste carrier, it’s your responsibility to make sure they’re licensed. If any illegally carried or dumped waste leads back to you, you could receive a £400 FPN.

“Always ask to see a waste carriers license before using them.”

More and more of these action days are taking place across the county. A tremendous amount of preparation takes place ahead of these days, including the gathering of vital intelligence to support the Council’s Enforcement team with their duties.

What can you do to dispose of your waste responsibly?

Fly tippers often target households via social media or local advertising, luring customers in with cheap rates to dispose of unwanted furniture, building rubble or garden waste. However, these unlicensed waste carriers often simply dump the waste wherever they can get away with it, including in Kent’s country lanes. Householders or small businesses found to be using criminals to dispose of their waste can and are being prosecuted by local authorities in Kent with fixed penalty notices that go up to £400 per offence.  Failure to pay such an FPN may result in court action where fines can be significantly larger.

To prevent this, householders should check whether someone is licenced to carry waste by visiting the Environment Agency website below, or alternatively call 03708 506506. It also helps if householders receive a written receipt or transfer note, including contact details, description of waste removed and details of where the waste is being taken to.

https://environment.data.gov.uk/public-register/view/search-waste-carriers-brokers