If householders pass on their refuse to an unlicensed person who then dumps it, the residents themselves could be slapped with a massive fine.
That’s the warning from Wyre Council bosses who want to cut down on the number of fly-tipping incidents in the borough.
Under the Household Waste Duty of Care Regulations 2005, anyone removing waste from a property must have a waste carrier licence issued by the Environment Agency. The regulations were introduced to prevent fly tipping and environmental crime, and give householders a legal duty to make sure their property is disposed of by licensed carriers.
Mark Billington, head of operations at Wyre Council, said the responsibility falls to the home owner.
He added: “Residents who don’t take steps to verify a carrier is authorised risk being fined up to £5,000 if their rubbish is then illegally dumped.
“Many unscrupulous contractors may seem plausible and will offer to remove rubbish from homes and gardens, before disposing of it on the streets of Wyre.
“A number of residents have already found themselves liable for clean up costs after rubbish from their properties was fly-tipped and traced back to them.
“To avoid being caught out, ask to see a waste carrier licence before handing over your rubbish.”
If in doubt, residents are advised to contact the Environment Agency directly on 08708 506 506 and ask for a free instant Waste Carrier Validation Check.
Checks can also be done online on the Environment Agency’s website.
In addition, the waste carrier’s contact details, vehicle registration and a receipt should be obtained.
For further information on the issue visit the website wyre.gov.uk/wastecarriers.