| Scale | Possible outcome |
|---|---|
| Small-scale (e.g. bag) | Fixed penalty notice |
| Larger / repeated | Prosecution – significant fines |
| Serious | Imprisonment possible |
| You hired unlicensed carrier | You can be held responsible |
Source: GOV.UK
Key links
- Report fly-tipping – Swindon Borough Council
- swindon.gov.uk – Waste or Report a problem
- GOV.UK – fly-tipping
- GOV.UK – Report fly-tipping
What is fly-tipping?
Fly-tipping is depositing waste on land without permission – e.g. on the roadside, in alleyways, on private land, or in the countryside. It includes household rubbish, furniture, building waste, and green waste. Even a single bag left next to a bin can be fly-tipping if it’s not in an authorised place.
Fines and penalties
Councils can issue fixed penalty notices (FPNs) for small-scale fly-tipping or pursue prosecution in the magistrates’ or crown court. Fines can be significant; serious or repeated offences can lead to imprisonment. If you hire someone to take your waste away and they fly-tip it, you can still be held responsible if you didn’t check they were licensed. Always use a registered waste carrier.
How to report fly-tipping
Report it to Swindon Borough Council via their website or the "report a problem" service. Give the location and, if safe, a description of the waste. Don’t touch or disturb the waste. The council will arrange removal where it’s on their land and may investigate. For waste on private land, the landowner is usually responsible for removal; you can still report it to the council. See our Report a problem guide for other issues (potholes, street lighting, etc.).
Information correct as of February 2026. Penalties and procedures can change. Check GOV.UK and swindon.gov.uk.