Illegal dumping is when unwanted items are intentionally placed on the street, in a park or in another public space. It poses a hazard to residents, attracts vermin such as rats and encourages others to engage in the same behaviour.
Illegal dumping negatively impacts our neighbourhoods. It causes risks to the community and damages our environment by:
- Attracting pests and vermin.
- Increasing fire and accident risks.
- Spreading weeds and hazardous material.
- Creating pollution and blocking stormwater drains.
- Exposing people and animals to harmful materials, such as medical waste, nappies, and asbestos.
Clean-up costs for illegal dumping are high, and this is funded by ratepayers.
It’s important that illegal dumping can be addressed when it occurs. This helps prevent the negative consequences of illegal dumping and increases the likelihood that those who illegally dump can be prosecuted.
Report illegal dumping
Include as many identifying details in your report as possible.
- Online(external link)
- Snap Send Solve mobile app
- Call 03 941 8999
- Visit a Customer Service Hub
Fines and prosecution
Council may, under the Litter Act 1979, issue fines for littering and illegal dumping.
- Where an offence fits more than one type, the higher fine applies.
- Repeat offenders will be considered for escalated enforcement action.
- Depending on the scale and severity of the offence, individuals can be fined, on conviction, up to $7500 or sentenced to up to one month's imprisonment.
- For an offence committed by a body corporate, it is liable on conviction to a fine up to $30,000.
| Fine | Types of offence |
|---|---|
| $100 | Depositing litter of less than 1 litre in a public place or on private land without the occupier’s consent |
| $200 | Depositing litter from 1 to 20 litres in a public place or on private land without the occupier’s consent |
| $300 | Depositing litter from 20 to 120 litres in a public place or on private land without the occupier’s consent |
| $400 | Depositing litter over 120 litres in a public place or on private land without the occupier’s consent |
| $400 | Depositing offensive, commercial or hazardous waste in a public place or on private land without the occupier’s consent |
Where to take unwanted items
Unwanted items can be taken to our EcoDrop transfer stations and Resource Recovery Centres. Many items are accepted for free, including excess recycling, whiteware, and scrap metal. General rubbish and green waste are also accepted for a fee.
If you have useful items that can be donated, but do not have access to reliable transport, many charity organisations provide pick-up services for your donations, subject to acceptance criteria.
