Illegal dumping

Published on 24 November 2021

Illegal dumpers are in Council’s sights and a number of fines have been issued since August after offenders were caught on camera surveillance at the region’s Rural Waste Transfer Stations.

Following reports of these incidents, Council conducted investigations and subsequently issued five Compliance Cost Notices under the Protection of the Environment Operations (POEO) Act and two formal cautions.

These fines were in relation to dumping of building and demolition waste, motor vehicle tyres, asbestos based cladding and ammunition at Home Rule and Queens Pinch Rural Waste Transfer Stations.

Council’s General Manager, Brad Cam said it is disappointing that these facilities continue to be used as a dumping ground for a select few.

“Rural Waste Transfer Stations are for the disposal of household waste and should be treated as such, they’re not open to receive all waste and are strictly reserved for residents who do not receive waste collection,” Mr Cam said.

“Council’s Compliance Officer is actively pursuing enquiries in relation to misuse of the facilities and in addition to the camera surveillance, offenders will be caught and prosecuted.”

Individuals face fines of up to $7,500 and corporations up to $15,000 for illegal dumping.

Rural Waste Transfer Stations are reserved for out of town residents who do not receive waste collection. These facilities are sign-posted with details on types of waste accepted. Residents are reminded there are no disposal fees at any of Council’s Waste Facilities in Mudgee, Gulgong or Kandos for disposal of household goods.

A full list of Rural Waste Transfer Stations, their locations and accepted waste is available on Council’s website.