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Refuse - fly-tipping

We all produce waste as part of our daily lives, whether it is at home or at our work place. Most of us dispose of it properly in a safe way but a few people choose to tip their waste in the countryside or dump it on someone else’s land. This is fly-tipping and it is illegal.

Why is fly-tipping illegal?

Fly-tipped waste can be dangerous and hazardous to the public particularly when it consists of drums of toxic material, asbestos or syringes. Fly-tipped waste can also pollute surrounding land and nearby watercourses, damage wildlife and ecosystems. It is unsightly and it costs the council tax payer a significant amount of money to remove it.

What is the law regarding fly-tipping?

Fly-tipping of any waste is a serious criminal offence that carries a fine of £50,000 or up to 5 years in prison.  You can read what the law says about fly-tipping: Environmental Protection Act 1990: Fly tipping|.

It is also an offence to permit or allow fly-tipping on land where a Waste management licences| is not held.

If a vehicle is used to fly–tip waste, then the driver and owner of the vehicle can be prosecuted.  The police and courts have power to seize and dispose of vehicles used in fly-tipping incidents.

The law also places a duty of care on producers and transporters of waste (see What is the duty of care?| for more information) to ensure the waste is disposed of properly.  Only licensed Waste carriers| can transport and dispose of waste and waste has to be disposed of at a licensed site.

How to report a fly-tipping incident

You can report the incident online: Report fly tipping. Or contact us on 01422 392373.

We will require the following information:

1. the day, date and time and location
2. description of any people involved
3. what was fly-tipped and how much
4. details of any vehicle involved including registration number, colour, make and model.

Please remember if you see someone fly-tipping never approach them as they may become violent. Never touch or sort through the waste as it may contain hazardous materials, broken glass or syringes.

Where can I get advice on how to dispose of my waste?

Householders - in an effort to reduce the number of fly-tipping incidents, the Council provides a free service for disposing of large bulky items that the refuse collection contractor will not normally collect. For details see .

Household waste can also be taken to one of the Council’s Household Waste and Recycling Sites.

Businesses – waste produced by businesses is called ‘controlled waste’ and like all waste has to be disposed of properly. You can find out what your responsibilities are at Duty of care - your waste responsibilities|.

Contact

• Telephone:
• 01422 392373
• In writing:
• Environmental Health
  Housing and Environment Services
  Northgate House
  Northgate
  Halifax HX1 1UN.

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