Fly TippingDorset Council have published a news release regarding fly-tipping and what we can all help to tackle the problem.

With household recycling centres currently closed because of the pandemic the Council are requesting “that any waste that would usually need to be taken to an [Household Recycling Centres] should just be kept to one side until they reopen” but acknowledge that “there will unfortunately always be a handful of selfish and anti-social individuals who will fly-tip waste and use the [Household Recycling Centres] closures to justify their illegal behaviour“.

That said, they have not noted any significant year on year increase in fly-tipping, but this may be due to fewer people being about, spotting it and then reporting it.

To help fight against fly-tipping the waster service’s Enforcement Team have asked residents to note the following:

Report it – If you spot a fly-tip, don’t assume we know about it. Fly-tips can be reported to the Council online and by phone. We will investigate all reported incidents and, where there is enough evidence, attempt to trace and prosecute those responsible

Make sure you’re covered – Rubbish you’ve handed to someone else is still your legal responsibility until it is correctly disposed of. If someone – such as an unlicensed ‘man in a van’ found on social media – were to fly-tip that waste, you could end up paying a fine or being taken to court.

Fly-tipping is a criminal offence, punishable of fines of up to £50,000- or 12-months imprisonment if convicted in a Magistrate’s Court. The offence can attract an unlimited fine and up to 5 years imprisonment if convicted in a Crown Court.

You can read the full news release, here and find out more by visiting the Tip Off web page. Fly-tipping incidents can be reported online or by calling 01305 221040.

How you can help tackle fly-tipping during the Coronavirus pandemic
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