Look out for dumb dumpers
Working with local businesses, Oxfordshire councils, through Oxfordshire Waste Partnership (OWP), are running a campaign to raise householders' awareness on DIY waste disposal.
Posters have gone on display across Oxfordshire in DIY stores, builders' merchants and garden centres detailing the householder's responsibilities when employing somebody to remove their waste.
All traders, from the 'man with a van' to large companies must be a registered waste carrier, with a licence number that householders should check with the Environment Agency. Many residents may not be aware that by using an unregistered trader to remove their rubbish, they may be liable for a fine of up to £5000 if that waste is later found fly tipped.
OWP chairman, Cllr John Tanner explains, "Last year, councils in Oxfordshire spent over £228,000 clearing fly-tipped rubbish. Unregistered traders are far more likely to dump the rubbish they collect rather than disposing of it properly. We want residents to be more aware of who’s taking their waste to reduce the incidents of fly-tipping."
Cllr Roger Belson is the Oxfordshire County Councillor responsible for waste, he adds, "Residents can dipsose of their own household waste at their local household waste recycling centre. All district councils operate bulky waste collections by appointment too."
Information on the householders duty of care, and to check if a trader is a registered waste carrier, is available on this website or by calling the Environment Agency on 08708 506 506.
