Crime, Dorset, Eco & Environment | Posted on March 26th, 2026 | return to news

Fly-tipping fines double in Dorset

Dorset Council issued 80 Fixed Penalty Notices in 2025, which is double the number given in the previous year.

Last year saw an unwelcome rise in fly-tipping in the Dorset Council area.

The authority has cracked down on enforcing waste-related offences, and in 2025 a total of 80 Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs) were issued, which is almost double the number given in the previous year.

Fly-tipping is the illegal dumping of waste on land that is not licensed to receive it. It ranges from garden waste and household items to commercial and industrial rubbish. It blights local communities, harms the environment, and costs taxpayers money to clear up. Dorset Council investigates every incident that is reported.

In 2025, the council issued 33 fines for fly-tipping, up from 18 the year before. Penalties were also issued to householders and businesses who failed to provide the correct paperwork when asked, such as Waste Transfer Notes or a valid Waste Carrier Licence.

As part of Dorset Council’s ongoing efforts to tackle illegal waste activity, 11 vehicles suspected of being involved in waste crime were seized last year, and five were destroyed after investigation. One case involving multiple fly-tipping offences is currently awaiting a court hearing.

Cllr Jon Andrews, Dorset Council’s Cabinet member for Place Services, said: “Fly-tipping causes real frustration for our residents and damages our natural environment. These figures show that we are taking firm, fair and consistent action against those who break the rules. Most people dispose of their waste responsibly, and we want them to feel confident that we are tackling the small number of people who do not.

“We will continue working with communities, landowners and partners to crack down on offenders and make it easier for people to do the right thing with their waste.”

Residents are encouraged to report fly-tipping as soon as they spot it. The council advises people to note the location, take a photo if safe to do so, and avoid touching the waste or confronting anyone involved. Anyone hiring a trader to remove rubbish should check that the individual or business is a licensed waste carrier.

Reports can be made using Dorset Council’s online form or by calling 01305 221040. Find out more at https://www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/scrap-flytipping.

Many normal household items can be disposed of free of charge at household recycling centres (HRCs). Details about their location and what can be disposed of can be found on the Dorset Council website.