Fly-tipped rubbish found in Tilney All Saints earlier this year has led to a householder being fined for failing to check that the person disposing of their rubbish was licensed.
The waste, which consisted of black bags and boxes, was traced to an address in Peterborough, where the owner acknowledged he had not checked if the person he paid to take his rubbish away had the proper licence.
It was found at the side of Church Lane in Tilney All Saints on January 2, and West Norfolk Council’s cleansing team checked it for evidence.
The waste was dumped off Church Lane in Tilney All Saints. Picture: West Norfolk Council
They brought this to the council’s clean neighbourhoods enforcement officer, who carried out an investigation and issued a fixed penalty notice for failure to comply with the householder’s duty of care.
Barry Brandford, waste and recycling manager for the borough council, said: “While householders may not be the ones actually dumping the rubbish in situations like this, they also bear responsibility for ensuring it is properly disposed of.
“All they need to do is check that their carrier is properly licensed. They can check the register of licensed waste carriers on the Environment Agency website. A reputable, licensed carrier will always be happy to provide details.”
The owner of this waste dumped off Church Lane in Tilney All Saints was fined. Picture: West Norfolk Council
The fine was £200, reduced for prompt payment within 14 days.
Mr Brandford added: “If someone turns up at your door or contacts you, perhaps through social media, offering to get rid of your rubbish for a cheap price – think twice.
“If your rubbish ends up being dumped the fine you face will be far greater than the cost of getting it disposed of by a licensed carrier.
“Our advice is that you should always check that someone is licensed to carry waste. It is also a good idea to get a receipt and, if possible, details of the vehicle as this can help with investigations.”
If someone finds or witnesses fly-tipping, this can be reported to the council at www.west-norfolk.gov.uk