From September 1, 2026, fixed penalty notices for littering will rise by 50% to £750, while those caught fly-tipping could face fines of up to £5,000, up from £1,000 previously. The new penalties, confirmed by Sir Keir Starmer’s government on July 14, are set out in the Environmental Offences (Fixed Penalties) (Amendment) (England) Regulations 2026.
Government confirms tougher penalties
The changes were unveiled on July 15, with the Government stating that the increased fines are designed to act as a stronger deterrent and reduce incidents of littering and fly-tipping across communities. In a statement, the Government said: “The revised fines would serve as a stronger deterrent and help reduce cases of littering and fly-tipping. Local authorities will be able to hand down harsher penalties, reflecting the real harm that waste criminals cause to the communities and environment that they ruthlessly disregard.”
The announcement was made while Emma Reynolds MP held the position of Environment Secretary. She said: “Fly-tipping and littering is a disgrace that blights local communities. Under this government, criminals who break the rules will face heftier fines to clean up the mess they make. We are sending a clear message to those who dump their rubbish - we are coming after you. You will have to pay the price.”
Council discretion remains
The Government has confirmed that councils will retain full discretion over the level of fines issued within the new limits, allowing penalties to be adjusted according to the severity of the offence. While the maximum levels have increased, local authorities will be able to issue lower fines where appropriate, reports Steven Smith from the Express.
Officials say this flexibility ensures punishments remain proportionate, while still sending a clear warning that serious offenders will face tougher consequences. The changes form part of the Government’s Waste Crime Action Plan, which aims to tackle everything from small-scale littering on high streets to large-scale illegal dumping operations.
The new fines come into force on September 1, 2026, and apply across England.
