The Labour Party government has confirmed a new rubbish law that imposes fines of up to £5,000 on UK households for fly-tipping, as part of a tough crackdown on waste crime. The maximum fine has been increased by 400 per cent from the original £1,000 level. Additionally, the top fine for littering on streets will rise to £750, a 50 per cent increase.
Rule change to take effect this summer
The rule change comes into force "this summer", the Labour Party announced. Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds stated: "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 and you will pay the price."
Councils given discretion on fines
Councils will have full discretion over the level of fine issued, with penalties scaled to reflect the severity of the offence. Local authorities can issue fines anywhere between the minimum and maximum thresholds. The move is part of Labour’s Waste Crime Action Plan, which also includes new guidance for councils on identifying and seizing vehicles involved in fly-tipping, as well as advice on taking cases to court and securing convictions against vehicle owners.
Support for Pride in Place agenda
The measures support the government’s Pride in Place agenda, helping communities take pride in where they live. The government encourages the public to report fly-tipping or suspected illegal waste activity anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or at crimestoppers-uk.org.
