Hefty fines are hoped to curb a spike in illegal dumping around Townsville.
More than 50 reports of illegal dumping are being made each month, with kerbsides, natural areas and road reserves the three top areas where locals are carelessly dumping their furniture, household waste and green waste.
Councillor Russ Cook says the illegal activity is completely unacceptable and carries considerable fines.
“Council receives a constant stream of calls and Snap, Send, Solve notifications for illegal dumping in bushland, parklands and roadside areas across Townsville,” Cr Cook says.
“This behaviour goes against our community standards and will not be tolerated by Council. If you think you can get away with it, think again. Illegal dumping in Townsville carries a $2300 fine and we have dedicated officers who work to make sure offenders are caught. There’s no excuse for illegal dumping.”
Cr Cook says there were a number of items that locals could take to Council’s Waste Transfer Stations to dump for free.
“Instead of illegally dumping your rubbish just put your waste in your household bin or, if it’s a larger item, recycle or dispose of it at Council’s Waste Transfer Stations,” he says.
“Items like green waste, white goods, air conditioners, cardboard, computers, fluorescent light tubes and clean metals can all be recycled for free.”
Waste that is illegally dumped can also end up in our waterways, become fire hazards and provide a home for vermin, which can attract snakes to the area.
Council is urging locals to report illegal dumping on 13 48 10.
