Homeowners could face fines of up to £400 this autumn if garden waste is mistaken for fly-tipping.
Councils are receiving complaints about leaves, hedge cuttings and other garden debris left on driveways. Some residents have already been issued fixed penalty notices.
Under the Environmental Protection Act 1990, councils can act when waste is left in a way that causes a nuisance or risks public safety. That includes garden waste, which should be dealt with through council collections, composting or a recycling centre.
A spokesperson for Wheeldon Brothers, a waste management firm, said: “Many people do not realise that if garden waste is left in a public place or on land where it does not belong, it can be classed as fly-tipping.”
Leaves moved by autumn storms and high winds can spread across pavements and roads, increasing the chance of complaints.
The spokesperson said: “Even if you have simply raked leaves to the edge of your driveway and plan to clear them later, there is a risk they could blow onto the pavement or road and attract a complaint.”
Leaves or branches blocking drains or pathways may also be treated as an obstruction or hazard.
The spokesperson said: “The safest approach is to collect and dispose of garden waste promptly rather than leaving it piled up where it could be misinterpreted as fly-tipping.”
Residents can avoid problems by clearing waste promptly and checking their council’s collection rules before leaving it outside at all.
£80 wheelie bin fine warning
UK households have also been warned they face £80 fines this summer due to a common bin mistake.
Millions of us could unknowingly fall foul of local council rules if we leave our wheelie bins out for too long, with some councils issuing fines of up to £80 for bins left on pavements after collection day.
Under Section 46A of the Environmental Protection Act 1990, councils have the power to fine residents who “fail to follow reasonable waste collection rules”, which includes leaving bins out for extended periods or blocking public walkways.
Top tips to avoid bin fines
- Ask a neighbour or family member to take your bin in after collection
- Check collection schedules before you leave, especially around bank holidays
- Make sure bins are not blocking paths, driveways or roads
- Secure your lid properly to avoid spillage or attracting pests
- Report any bin damage on return for replacement
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