Illegal dumping is an offence that costs ratepayers approximately $600k a year in clean-up costs and resources.
Illegal dumping is unlawful, intentional abandonment or disposal of waste—ranging from household items to large commercial materials—on any land without permission and is an offence under Section 49 of theEnvironmental Protection Act 1986, carrying a maximum penalty of $125,000.
Throwing, dropping or leaving waste is litter and is an offence under the Litter Act 1979. Dumping waste of any kind (even small amounts) is an offence under the Litter Act, and carries a maximum penalty of $10,000
Litter and illegal dumping are more than just unsightly, it can:
- Attract vermin and scavenging animals
- Damage the environment
- Create safety risks, particularly for children
- Reduce local property values
- Introduce hazardous waste that may pose health and environmental risks
If offenders are caught and prosecuted, they can face penalties, clean-up and court costs. Offenders' details, including business details, are also made public, which can result in reputational damage and loss of income for the individual or company involved.
The Department of Water and Environmental Regulation investigates and prosecutes large-scale illegal dumping offences under the Environmental Protection Act.
Reporting litter and illegal dumping
We need your help to keep our city free of litter and dumped waste. If you see something, please remove it or report it!
You can report it by contacting the City:
Report it 24/7
Alternatively, you can call us on 08 9439 0200 or send us an email customer@kwinana.wa.gov.au
The Department of Water and Environmental Regulation is responsible for investigating and prosecuting offenders who illegally dump large amounts of waste. You can report suspicious activity to the Pollution Watch Hotline on 1300 784 782 (24 hours) or via pollutionwatch@dwer.wa.gov.au.
Property owner responsibilities
Under Western Australian legislation and associated local laws, landowners are responsible for the removal of illegally dumped waste on their property. This means waste dumped on property verges or vacant blocks becomes the responsibility of that landowner, not the City.
The City can assist with issuing infringements or pursuing prosecutions if sufficient evidence is available. Helpful evidence includes:
- Date, time and location
- Description of the offender
- Description of the waste
- Vehicle details and registration
- Photographic or video evidence (strongly recommended)
Please note that even if enforcement action is taken, the landowner remains responsible for removing the waste.
To deter dumping, property owners are encouraged to install:
- CCTV surveillance
- Fencing or access barriers
- Sensor lighting
How can I dispose of my bulk waste appropriately?
All properties paying a Waste Service Charge can book pre-booked verge collections year-round.
For more information, visit the Pre-Booked Verge Collection Service webpage
What is the City doing?
The City of Kwinana is committed to keeping our community clean and protecting the environment.
To prevent and manage litter and illegal dumping, the City:
- Works to prevent littering and illegal dumping
- Cleans up waste as quickly as possible
- Educates the community about environmental and financial impacts
In 2023, the City adopted the Litter and Illegal Dumping Plan 2023, which focuses on:
- Reducing litter and illegal dumping
- Improving waste management practices
- Raising community awareness and encouraging action
View the Litter and Illegal Dumping Plan 2023 here.
Littering and illegal dumping are infringeable offences under the City’s Waste Local Law 2022 (Hyperlink: kwinana.wa.gov.au/property-and-pets/waste-and-recycling/waste-legislation,-statistics-and-documents) and the Litter Act 1979.
What can I do to help?
We all play a role in protecting our environment. If you see litter, please remove it or report it:
REPORT IT 24/7 BUTTON
Alternatively, you can call us on 08 9439 0200 or send us an email customer@kwinana.wa.gov.au