Dob in the dumpers, says council
Council is cracking down on illegal dumping, with over 1,500 cases reported from January to June this year, and has encouraged the community to report incidents of dumping.
Council recently prosecuted and issued a $1,000 fine to someone for dumping vegetation waste on the side of the road in Frenchs Forest, following a tip off from residents. The rangers caught the same dumper reoffending, attempting to offload more vegetation waste in the same location.
Council said that illegal dumping is an eyesore, puts residents at risk of fire or injury, pollutes the neighbourhood, and can harm native wildlife.
“Illegal dumping may be unsightly, but it can also be a safety issue,” Mayor Sue Heins told PL. “It potentially restricts footpath access, can damage our environment, harms our local wildlife and native flora, and even impacts human health.”
According to the council, most illegal dumping on the Beaches occurred in high-density residential areas, with a smaller number in remote areas adjacent to bushland and major transport corridors.
The Environment Protection Legislation Amendment (Stronger Regulation and Penalties) Act 2024, introduced in April, gives the council more prosecuting power.
The act introduces a new offence for small-scale illegal dumping of more than 50 litres or kilograms of litter or waste in a public place or an open private space. Rangers can issue on-the-spot fines of up to $2,500 to individuals with a maximum penalty of $25,000. This offence would include bulky furniture items such as cupboards, beds, lounges, tyres, white goods and mattresses.
Council said: “If residents see someone offloading an old fridge or a mattress in your area, whether you know who’s responsible or not, let the council know so it can take action to identify those involved, issue fines, and arrange the removal of material. The compliance team follows up on all reported cases.”
Dob in the dumpers by calling council on 1300 434 434. In the case of major state roads such as Wakehurst Parkway, Mona Vale Road and Pittwater Road, contact Transport for NSW.