New campaign to tackle green waste fly-tipping in Dorset

The Dorset Partnership Against Rural Crime (DPARC) is leading the campaign, bringing together the Dorset police and crime commissioner’s office, Dorset Police, the Environment Agency, Dorset Council, BCP Council and Forestry England.

The campaign aims to address the illegal dumping of garden waste, which typically increases during the summer months as residents clear their gardens.

David Sidwick, Dorset’s police and crime commissioner, said: "Fly-tipping is not a victimless crime.

"It blights our countryside, harms wildlife and creates unnecessary costs for communities and landowners."

Authorities are reminding householders that they are legally responsible for ensuring their waste is disposed of correctly.

Fly-tipping green waste, such as grass cuttings, hedge trimmings and branches, can damage wildlife habitats, block roads and gateways, and increase fire risk.

It also places financial pressure on landowners and taxpayers.

The campaign encourages the public to use council garden waste services, household recycling centres or licensed waste carriers.

Residents are also advised to check that anyone disposing of waste on their behalf is properly registered and to request waste transfer documentation.

Enforcement action against offenders will continue, with agencies sharing intelligence and working collaboratively to identify those responsible.

Residents can visit the Country Watch website for more information on responsible garden waste disposal.