Suspected fly-tippers targeted during day of action

On Friday 11 October, Thanet District Council enforcement officers teamed up with Kent Police’s Rural Task Force for a day of action, targeting suspected fly-tippers.The joint operation saw officers carry out enquiries, collate evidence, arrest people suspected of fly-tipping and seize vehicles. Enforcement officers will continue to interview suspects and build cases in a bid to secure prosecutions.

The initial results from the action day include ten vehicles stopped and searched, seven Environmental Notices issued, one Fixed Penalty Notice issued and the seizure of two vehicles. The action day is one of many that are now taking place across the county with increasing frequency. Each day requires extensive coordination and in depth preparation including the gathering of vital intelligence to support the Thanet District Council enforcement team with its duties.

Councillor Steve Albon, Thanet District Council’s Cabinet Member for Operational Services said: “This joined up approach to tackling fly-tipping continues to deliver great results. Dumping of waste by unlicensed carriers is something that costs council tax payers hundreds of pounds to clear. It’s a criminal offence and we are determined to clamp down on it. We want to send a very clear message to those involved in the practice that action will be taken. It is also important that we educate residents and businesses on responsible waste disposal.”

What can you do to dispose of your waste responsibly?

Fly-tippers often target households via social media or local advertising, luring customers in with cheap rates to dispose of unwanted furniture, building rubble or garden waste. However, these unlicensed waste carriers often simply dump the waste wherever they can get away with it, including in Kent’s country lanes. Householders or small businesses found to be using criminals to dispose of their waste can and are being prosecuted by local authorities in Kent with fixed penalty notices of up to £400 per offence.  

To prevent this, householders should check whether someone is licenced to carry waste by visiting the Environment Agency website below, or alternatively call 03708 506506. It also helps if householders receive a written receipt or transfer note, including contact details, a description of waste removed and details of where the waste is being taken to. 

https://environment.data.gov.uk/public-register/view/search-waste-carriers-brokers 

The 13 Kent councils, along with Kent Police, are working in partnership to Keep Kent Clean. To keep updated with the councils’ efforts to tackle fly tipping and littering, follow #KeepKentClean on social media.