Fly-tipping

Fly-tipping is the illegal dumping of waste. We treat fly-tipping very seriously. We will look to investigate and prosecute anyone caught fly-tipping waste. We will organise for the removal of fly-tipping from public land. We deal with small amounts of fly-tipping, less than a bin bag full, as litter.

See litter to find out about making a street cleaning request.

Penalty notice and fine for fly-tipping

We can issue a £200 fixed penalty notice to anyone who we suspect may have fly-tipped. Prosecution for fly-tipping carries a fine of up to £95,000 (unlimited if taken through the Crown Court) or an offender can be sent to prison or have their vehicle seized.

What to do if you see fly-tipped waste

Report fly-tipping online straight away or contact Customer Services.

If you see someone fly-tipping

Any information listed below about who has fly-tipped could be used by the Community Wardens to find the person responsible. Details such as:

• vehicle registration and description
• description of the person or persons seen fly-tipping
• a photo, video or dashboard camera footage of the fly-tipping incident

NEVER touch the waste: fly-tipped waste can be dangerous - it may contain syringes, broken glass, asbestos, toxic chemicals or other hazardous substances.

NEVER disturb the site - we need to gather the evidence ourselves to help identify the fly-tippers and lead to their prosecution

NEVER approach anyone you see fly-tipping - they could become violent. If you witness it happening, call the police on 101.

Remember - Don't Put Yourself At Risk!

Fly-tipping on private land

You are responsible for securing your land. We will not remove waste on private land.

We close any reports of fly-tipping if the Community Wardens are unable to identify the owner of the land. When reporting fly-tipping please say if you believe the land is private, and who you believe to be the owner.

Better ways of disposing of unwanted items

If someone can reuse an item:

• Donated to Impact Housing.

• Donated to British Heart Foundation.

• Advertise on Freegle in Penrith and Eden District.

If you cannot reuse an item:

• The household waste recycling centres at Flusco and Kirkby Stephen will recycle or dispose of most items taken there.

• Find out about the bulky household waste collection, which will collect up to three large items of furniture for a set fee.

• Find out about the appliance collection, which will collect a large electrical item for a set fee.