Fly-tipping is a persistent issue that affects communities across the UK. It not only tarnishes the environment but also poses significant risks to public health and safety. As an owner or occupier of private property, it is your responsibility to manage any fly-tipped waste on your land. Unfortunately, local councils will not clear rubbish that has been dumped free of charge, although they may investigate and take enforcement action against offenders. The Environment Agency is tasked with investigating larger or hazardous incidents of illegal dumping. So, what can you do as a landowner? Here’s some essential fly-tipping prevention advice for landowners.
Reporting Fly-Tipping
The first step in addressing fly-tipping on your property is to report it to your local authority. This is crucial for several reasons:
- Link to Other Incidents: The dumped waste could be connected to other fly-tipping incidents in the area. By reporting it, you contribute valuable information that may help authorities tackle the broader problem.
- Investigation: Local councils have teams dedicated to investigating these matters, which could lead to enforcement actions against those responsible.
- Documentation: Reporting creates an official record of the incident, which can be useful if you need to take further action.
Handling Illegally Dumped Waste
When you discover fly-tipped waste on your property, it’s important to proceed with caution:
Assessing Hazards
Some fly-tipped waste may be hazardous or dangerous. Do not open bags or containers without knowing their contents; they could contain contaminated materials or sharp objects that pose a risk.
Documenting the Incident
Before taking any action, document the situation thoroughly:
- Photographs: If possible, take clear photographs of the dumped waste from various angles.
- Details: Record details about what has been dumped, including descriptions and estimated quantities.
Reporting Before Removal
Do not attempt to remove the waste until you have notified the authorities. This ensures that they are aware of the situation and can investigate if necessary.
Securing the Waste
To prevent further interference or additional dumping:
- Secure the area around the waste.
- Avoid touching or moving anything until authorities have been informed.
Safety First
Remember that fly-tippers are breaking the law and may react aggressively if confronted. If you witness a crime in progress, do not hesitate to call 999 for immediate assistance.
Arranging Disposal Safely
Once you’ve reported the incident and secured your site, you’ll need to arrange for proper disposal:
- Use Registered Waste Carriers: Always hire a registered waste carrier like Martlands for removal services. If you dispose of illegally dumped waste elsewhere without proper documentation, you could face an unlimited fine.
- Get Documentation: Ensure that you receive all necessary paperwork from whoever takes away the waste as proof of disposal.
- Self-Disposal Requirements: If you’re considering removing the waste yourself:
- You must be registered as a waste carrier.
- For hazardous materials, ensure disposal is handled by someone licensed specifically for such types of waste.
- Keep Records: Maintain detailed records of any costs incurred during clearance efforts; this documentation might help recover expenses if a conviction occurs against those responsible for dumping.
Preventing Future Fly-Tipping
Prevention is always better than cure when it comes to fly-tipping on your land. Here are some effective strategies:
Restrict Access
Consider restricting access to your property using physical barriers such as gates or earth bunds (mounds). Tree trunks and boulders can also deter unwanted visitors while enhancing natural aesthetics.
Secure Gates
Always keep gates closed and locked when not in use; this simple measure can significantly reduce opportunities for fly-tippers.
Improve Visibility
Enhancing visibility around your property makes it less appealing for illegal dumping:
- Install adequate lighting in dark areas.
- Trim back overgrown vegetation that might provide cover for illicit activities.
Use Deterrents
Consider placing deterrent signage indicating that fly-tipping is illegal and monitored by CCTV cameras if applicable—this can act as a strong warning against potential offenders.
Swift Clearance
If any rubbish does get dumped on your land, act quickly by clearing it away promptly; this discourages others from adding more rubbish since they will perceive less opportunity for concealment.
Martlands Skip Hire
As an owner or occupier of private property, understanding your responsibilities regarding fly-tipping is crucial in maintaining both environmental integrity and community well-being. By following these guidelines—reporting incidents promptly, handling hazardous materials carefully, arranging safe disposal methods through registered carriers—and implementing preventative measures—you can significantly mitigate risks associated with illegal dumping on your land.
For further information on managing fly-tipping effectively within your community or accessing resources tailored specifically towards landowners like yourself, consider reaching out directly to local authorities or environmental agencies dedicated to tackling this pressing issue head-on!
Don’t risk a fine: use a fully licensed waste carrier. To discover more about hiring a skip, call Martlands Skip Hire on one of our numbers below:-
Burscough Skip Hire 01704 779345
Wigan Skip Hire 01942 417456
Bamber Bridge Skip Hire 01772 364 399
Chorley Skip Hire 01257 752399
Leyland Skip Hire 01772 364399
Maghull Skip Hire 0151 909 6399
