Responsibilities and Clearing Fly-Tipping

Fly-tipping is an issue that affects landowners, businesses, and communities across the UK. Whether it’s a single black bag or an entire van load of waste dumped illegally on your land, it creates a serious environmental hazard, and a frustrating, and often costly, problem.

At RJC Plant Services Ltd, we regularly support landowners and businesses in managing the aftermath of fly-tipping. But many people are unsure where responsibility lies when waste is illegally dumped. So, let’s break it down.

Who Is Responsible for Clearing Fly-Tipping?

Private Landowners Bear the Burden

If waste is fly-tipped on private land, whether it’s a farm, industrial estate, or commercial premises, the legal responsibility for removing the waste falls to the landowner or tenant, not the local council.

Unfortunately, this means:

You must arrange and pay for the waste to be removed.
You could be fined or prosecuted if the waste is not dealt with properly or promptly.
Leaving the waste could pose environmental risks and damage your reputation, particularly if hazardous materials are involved.

Public Land – Council Responsibility

If waste is dumped on public land (e.g. roads, parks, pavements), it’s typically the responsibility of the local authority to remove it. These incidents should be reported directly to the relevant council.

What Should You Do If You Discover Fly-Tipping?

Do Not Touch the Waste
- Fly-tipped waste can contain hazardous materials (asbestos, needles, chemicals).
- Take photos but keep a safe distance.
Report the Incident
- Report it to your local council and, if appropriate, the Environment Agency.
- Provide details such as location, time/date, and any witness accounts or vehicle registration numbers.
Arrange Safe and Legal Removal
- Use a registered waste carrier like RJC Plant Services Ltd.
- We ensure all waste is disposed of responsibly and in compliance with UK environmental regulations.

Why Use a Professional Waste Removal Service?

Disposing of fly-tipped waste yourself — especially if it includes bulky or hazardous materials — is risky and legally complex. Choosing a licensed and insured provider like RJC Plant Services Ltd gives you:

Full waste documentation (including waste transfer notes)
Peace of mind that disposal complies with Environmental Agency standards
Quick, safe, and professional removal, no matter the scale

Can You Prevent Fly-Tipping?

While no method is foolproof, you can reduce your risk:

Install CCTV and signage in vulnerable areas
Use barriers or fencing to restrict access
Report suspicious activity immediately
Keep your site clean and well-maintained to deter dumping

Need Help Clearing Fly-Tipped Waste?

At RJC Plant Services Ltd, we’re equipped to handle everything from small-scale rubbish removal to large, hazardous clean-ups. Whether it’s a one-off job or part of regular site maintenance, we’re ready to help you stay compliant and fly-tip free. Our grab hire drivers are licensed and certified to remove waste safely and legally.