The service we provide
The Council is committed to improve the quality of everyone’s living environment. We recognise there needs to be active enforcement and education to support neighbourhood clean-up initiatives.
We have a very active Enviro-Crime Unit. It ensures people follow the law regarding such issues as littering, fly-tipping, dog fouling and straying dogs. This team also works with schools and local community groups to promote a greater community pride.
The penalties vary depending on the type and seriousness of the offence:
- Fixed penalty fines of up to £75 for littering and dog fouling.
- Fines through court of up to £50,000 and/or imprisonment for serious illegal deposits of waste.
Investigations can arise from information from the public or from direct surveillance by the Enforcement officers. The teams work in partnership with other enforcement bodies, such as the Environment Agency, the Police and the Anti-Social Behaviour Unit.
The service you can expect
Our team normally responds to requests for service within 5 working days. However, for some offences, such as fly-tipping or straying dogs, we aim to attend immediately or within the day. All investigations and legal proceedings taken will follow the Council's General Enforcement Policy, which embodies the principles of the national Enforcement Concordat.
The service we achieve
Between 2001 and April 2008, there have been over 2,900 legal actions taken against offenders. Nationally, the performance of our enforcement team is in the top 5% of Councils who serve fixed penalty notices.
Further information
Enviro-Crime Enforcement (Dog fouling, stray dogs, littering & fly-tipping)
Contact the Enviro-Crime Unit
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