Ensuring the correct disposal of household waste is not only crucial for the well-being of our community but also a legal responsibility.
The Lincolnshire Environmental Crime Partnership emphasises the need to dispose of household waste appropriately to avoid fines and contribute to a cleaner environment.
What Constitutes Household Waste?
Household waste encompasses various items, including your regular rubbish, unwanted furniture, old mattresses, electrical appliances, garden waste, oils, paints, scrap metal, septic tank sludge, and DIY waste such as rubble and bricks.
How to Dispose of Household Waste:
1. Most regular household rubbish can be placed in bins provided by your local council. Check your council's waste collection guidelines here.
2. For items not suitable for regular bins:
- Arrange a special collection for large items here.
- Dispose of garden waste through your local council here.
- Visit the household waste and recycling centre run by your local council.
3. If using a private waste service:
- Ensure the company is registered on the waste carriers register.
- Check scrap metal collectors on the scrap metal dealers register.
- Confirm the charity collecting items is on the waste carriers register (select 'lower tier').
Responsibility When Using Tradespeople:
If you hire a tradesperson for construction or renovation work, the waste produced is considered business waste. The tradesperson is responsible for its proper disposal; they can find guidelines here.
Checks for Private Waste Companies:
When using a private waste company or disposing of waste yourself, ensure:
- The private site has an environmental permit or registered waste exemption.
- Verify the permit/exemption with the Environment Agency’s register or waste exemptions.
- Alternatively, check with your local council or the Environment Agency.
Fixed Penalty Notices and Fines:
Failure to conduct necessary checks on waste disposal may result in fixed penalty notices. Learn more here.
Reporting Waste Crime:
Report large-scale waste crimes to the Environment Agency here or call 0800 555 111. For small-scale waste crimes, such as fly-tipping, contact your local council here.
For detailed information, download the leaflet. Feel free to print and share as you see fit. Let's work together to keep Ruskington clean and environmentally responsible.
For further information, please contact the Environment Agency at enquiries@environment-agency.gov.uk or 03708 506 506, Monday to Friday, 8 am to 6 pm.