Roles, Responsibilities and Powers

Local authorities and the Environment Agency have powers to tackle fly-tipping. Local authorities are only responsible for clearing the waste from public land. Major fly-tipping incidents occurring on public or private land are investigated by the Environment Agency. Landowners are responsible for the land that they own.

Vehicle Seizure Powers – Local Authority Guidance

Local authorities have powers to take enforcement action against offenders of fly-tipping. This includes powers to search and seize vehicles of suspected fly-tippers.

This document is to support local authorities when carrying out the power to seize vehicles suspected of being involved in waste crime. It is intended to provide practical advice only and does not constitute or replace statutory documentation.

Partnership Working

It is widely recognised that fly-tipping is best combated through partnerships between local authorities, other enforcement agencies and the environment regulator.

The fly-tipping partnership framework outlines best practice for the prevention, reporting, investigation, and clearance of fly-tipping. It encourages partnership working at a local level and provides ideas that can be adapted by local groups to suit their own circumstances.