Wyre Council has taken firm action to tackle environmental crime by increasing the penalty for fly‑tipping to the maximum level permitted by government.
Anyone caught illegally dumping waste in the borough now faces a fixed penalty notice of up to £1,000, with a reduced rate of £600 if paid within 10 days. The move sends a clear message that fly‑tipping will not be tolerated in Wyre.
The decision comes at a critical time. In 2024/25, more than 1.26 million fly‑tipping incidents were recorded across England, with national clearance costs exceeding £19.3 million.
While incidents in Wyre are lower than the national average Wyre continues to experience persistent fly tipping, blighting neighbourhoods, damaging wildlife and placing an unfair financial burden on local residents and services.
While the average fly‑tipping fine issued by councils nationally is £626, Wyre Council has chosen to apply the maximum possible penalty. The increase reflects the seriousness of the offence and the significant time and cost involved in investigating incidents, clearing waste and preparing cases for enforcement.
By raising the fixed penalty notice, Wyre council aims to deter offenders, reduce repeat incidents and ensure those responsible for environmental damage contribute more directly to the cost of clearing it up, rather than passing that burden on to local communities.
Councillor Simon Bridge, Portfolio Holder for Street Scene, Parks and Open Spaces, said: “Fly‑tipping is not a minor offence. It damages our environment, undermines community pride and places an unfair financial burden on residents.
‘’By increasing penalties to the highest level available, we are taking a clear stand on behalf of our communities and sending a strong message that environmental crime will not be tolerated in Wyre.”
The increased fixed penalty applies to smaller‑scale fly‑tipping incidents. Larger or more serious offences may still be prosecuted, with offenders facing unlimited fines or up to five years’ imprisonment in the most serious cases.
Residents can help tackle fly‑tipping by reporting incidents promptly at www.wyre.gov.uk/report-it.
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