Fly-tipping: what to do and who is responsible
Fly-tipping is dumping waste illegally. Here is what to do if you see it, and how to avoid ending up responsible for it.
What it is
Fly-tipping is dumping waste on land that is not licensed to receive it. It can be a single bag or a whole van load. It is a criminal offence.
If you see it
- Do not touch it. Waste can contain sharp objects, chemicals or asbestos.
- Report it to the council that looks after the land, usually your local council. Give the exact location and a description. Photos from a safe distance help.
- If you see it happening, note the vehicle registration and description and report it. Do not confront anyone.
If it is on your land
On private land, the landowner is generally responsible for clearing it, and councils may not remove it for free. Report it to the council anyway, as they may investigate who dumped it. Take care and use a registered carrier to remove large or hazardous amounts.
How not to be caught out
Many people are caught out by paying someone cheap to take their waste, which is then dumped. Always check the carrier is registered and keep your paperwork. Read about the household waste duty of care.
More guides
How to check a waste carrier is registered
Anyone who takes your waste away as a business must be a registered waste carrier. Here is how to check in a few minutes, and the warning signs to look for.
Your household waste duty of care
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Getting rid of bulky items: your options
Sofas, mattresses, fridges and old furniture: the legal ways to get rid of bulky household items in the UK, from council collections to registered carriers.
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Questions to ask before hiring someone to take your waste
A short checklist of questions to ask a rubbish removal company before you book: registration, insurance, where the waste goes and what paperwork you will get.
Waste transfer notes: what householders need to know
What a waste transfer note is, whether you need one for household waste, and why keeping a receipt from your waste carrier is a good idea.