This October, we’re supporting Keep Scotland Beautiful‘s national campaign to tackle fly-tipping and encourage everyone to take responsibility for their waste!
What is fly-tipping?
Fly-tipping is the illegal dumping of waste, ranging from household waste and bulky items to commercial and construction waste.
Around 26,000 tonnes of waste is estimated to be fly-tipped in Scotland each year.
Why is it so bad?
Fly-tipping can have serious consequences for people and the environment. Waste can contain hazardous materials, harm plants and wildlife, and pollute land and water. It can also leave local authorities, landowners and businesses dealing with the cost and practical work of clearing it up. Keep reading to find out what you can do to help!
Man with a van? Check they’re registered.
Everyone who is paid to take waste away must be registered with SEPA. If you employ someone who tips it illegally, it’s not just them who will be prosecuted – you can be held liable and fined too.
If you’re paying someone to take your waste away, ask the question before handing it over. Ask for their registration number and check it on the SEPA register – it only takes around 30 seconds. If you can’t find them on the register, or they don’t have one, don’t hand over your waste.
A quick check can help stop your waste ending up fly-tipped somewhere in East Ayrshire and save you having to pay a £500 fine.
How to report fly-tipping
If you discover fly-tipping, it’s important that you report it as soon as possible. The more details you can provide, the more chance East Ayrshire Council have of catching and convicting offenders. Information such as:
- Date
- Time
- Place of the incident
- What has been dumped (as some waste can be hazardous, please do not touch anything, or open any bags – just give visual appraisal)
- Description of any vehicles involved, including registration plate
- Photographs (if it’s safe to take them)
- Your contact details
Click here to Report Fly Tipping to East Ayrshire Council
Dispose of your waste safely
If you aren’t going to use a registered company to dispose of your waste you can arrange for a bulky uplift visit to your home – they will collect items such as furniture, carpets, electrical items, and white goods for a fee.
If you’re an East Ayrshire resident and you receive Council Tax or Housing Benefit support, you will qualify for a 50% discount on standard bulky uplift charges.
If you can transport the items yourself, you can also book an appointment to take household waste to one of our recycling centres free of charge.
Click here for Information about your Local Recycling Centre
