THERE were no fixed penalty notices issued for flytipping in the South Lakes in the last two years, figures reveal. 

The maximum penalty for flytipping that can be imposed by the courts is a £50,000 fine and up to five years in prison for the most serious offences.

A Westmorland and Furness Council spokesperson said: "Flytipping is not a victimless crime."

The data, published by the government this year, show that were 229 incidences of flytipping in the year up to March 2023 and 185 in 2021-22, an increase of almost a quarter (23.8 per cent).

But the council said they had issued notices to people who have fly-tipped in South Lakeland in the months since March 2023.

"As well as the cost to the environment, the financial cost of clearance, disposal and investigation is ultimately borne by the council tax payers," the spokesperson added.

In Barrow there were only two fixed penalty notices issued for flytipping, despite there being 1,210 incidents between 2022-23. 

The spokesman said the council 'investigates every case of flytipping reported.' 

Residents can dispose of unwanted large items or non-recyclables by taking them to the Household Waste Recycling Centre or by contacting the council to arrange collection. 

"Residents are also reminded that they have a responsibility to ensure that waste or building materials from their property is disposed of correctly," said the spokesman.

"If you employ someone to take it away and dispose of it then you could be facing a fine yourself if that waste is subsequently flytipped. If the price you are quoted to take it away seems too good to be true, then it probably is and you should beware," the spokesperson said. 

Reasonable steps to take include: 

  • Asking the waste carrier to provide you with their full address and telephone number.
  • Asking to see their waste carrier license issued by the Environment Agency.
  • Contacting the Environment Agency directly on 08708 506 506 and ask for a free instant Waste Carrier Validation Check, alternatively you can check online on the Environment Agency website
  • Taking a photo of the van and your waste whilst on your property.