Government crackdown on litter and fly-tipping

On-the-spot fines for litter, graffiti and fly-tipping rise today (Monday 31 July) as part of the Prime Minister’s crackdown on anti-social behaviour.

Environmental crimes like littering and fly-tipping are cynical and opportunistic, damaging wildlife and nature, creating eyesores and ruining our enjoyment of the great outdoors. The new upper limit to fines will deter people from harming our public spaces in the first place, and ensure that those who continue to offend face tougher consequences.

To help equip councils with everything they need and strengthen their arm, government is laying a statutory instrument increasing the upper limits for various fixed penalty notices (FPNs) from today (Monday 31 July 2023).

• The maximum amount those caught fly-tipping could be fined will increase from £400 to £1,000
• The maximum amount those who litter or graffiti could be fined will increase from £150 to £500
• The maximum amount those who breach their household waste duty of care could be fined will increase from £400 to £600

Director of Policy, Sarah Lee said:

“Littering and fly-tipping are not just careless acts; they are reflections of people’s disregard for the environment and their community. Each piece of litter or dumped waste not only mars the landscape but threatens the delicate balance of nature. This is why the Countryside Alliance welcomes the rise in fines but believes that we must also educate people about the impact this thoughtless and selfish crime has on the countryside and our communities.”

Environment Secretary, Thérèse Coffey said:

“Everyone loathes litter louts and people who dump rubbish. We are increasing the penalties local councils can apply for this behaviour that spoils our streets and harms nature.”