Fly tipping

Fly tipping is an increasing problem throughout the Scottish Borders. This is dumped waste on public or private land such as:

• old furniture
• household white goods
• construction debris
• grass cuttings

Although fly tipping is illegal, punishable by heavy fines or even imprisonment, people still see this as an acceptable and easy method of waste disposal, despite jeopardising the environment and the obvious risks to both humans and animals.

Report fly tipping

• report any incidents of illegal dumping on publicly owned land to our Parks & Environment team or phone 0300 100 1800.

Private Landowners

• If you own private land where fly tipping has occurred it is your responsibility to clear-up the area and dispose of waste correctly.
• Consider limiting vehicle access to sites where fly tipping regularly occurs.

Advice for hiring private waste collectors

If you choose to hire a private company for waste disposal, it’s important to ensure they are a SEPA-registered waste carrier. You should request documentation for the disposal and ask the carrier which licensed facility they will use to dispose of the waste.

If the company cannot provide this information, you should seek an alternative provider. If your contracted waste carrier illegally dumps your waste, you could be held accountable and face a fine of up to £5,000.

Before hiring a waste carrier, you can verify their SEPA registration by visiting the SEPA Wastecarriers website or by calling 0300 0996699.