Fly-tipping in Ivybridge and Plympton ended in Fixed Penalty Notice

South Hams District Council has issued two Fixed Penalty Notices for fly-tipping following investigations into two separate incidents – taking the total number of fines handed out to four in the last six months.

The Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs) were handed out for breaches of waste duty of care legislation, which means people must take all reasonable measures to prevent fly-tipping and ensure waste is handled by licensed waste carriers and disposed of properly.

Cllr Victor Abbott, Executive Member for Community Services, Operations and Leisure, said: “South Hams District Council takes waste crime extremely seriously. Fly-tipping is a blight on our countryside and a crime that endangers wildlife and damages our environment. We are determined to take action against those carrying out such crimes, and these FPNs are proof of that.

“We will use all the powers available to use to deal with those who are intent on spoiling the district. We’re committed to keeping the area clean and tidy for our residents and visitors.

“If you need to dispose of bulky waste, ensure that you do so legally by using a licensed waste carrier and protect yourself as well as the environment. If you are in any doubt, don't hand your waste over.” 

The first incident involved waste found dumped in a gateway in Plympton, including cardboard boxes, carpets and timber from renovation works. The second involved waste deposited in a lay-by in Ivybridge, consisting of cardboard boxes and bulky household items.

Following investigations, both individuals were invited to attend an interview under caution. During the interviews, both parties admitted that they had failed to take reasonable measures to ensure their waste was disposed of legally, and FPNs were issued for failing in their duty of care responsibilities.

This brings the total number of fly-tipping-related fines issued by the council to four in the last six months and demonstrates the council’s continued commitment to tackling waste crime and keeping South Hams communities clean.

Everyone has a legal responsibility to ensure that any waste they produce is transferred to an authorised person and disposed of correctly. Failure to do so can contribute to fly-tipping and environmental crime, even if someone else physically dumps the waste.

As well as taking action against those who fail in their duty of care responsibilities, the council also looks to take firm enforcement action against those responsible for transporting and illegally disposing of waste. They can face FPNs, prosecution and significant fines through the courts.

Dispose of Your Waste Legally

Before you pay someone to take your rubbish away:

• Ask for their Waste Carrier Registration Number
• Check the registration on the Environment Agency's public register or call 0300 065 3000
• Get a receipt
• Make a note of the waste carrier's name and vehicle registration number

By taking these simple steps, you can protect yourself from enforcement action and help SHDC keep the South Hams clean and free from fly-tipping.