New laws mean operators will have to prove they are qualified to transport waste. It comes as part of a government crackdown on fly-tipping which comes into force next year
Waste cowboys face up to five years behind bars as part of a government crackdown on fly-tipping. Ministers reckon new reforms including tougher prison sentences and background checks on rogue operators will help put illegal dumpers out of business.
The new laws mean waste handlers have to prove they are qualified to transport waste. Under the current system there are ‘limited identity and background checks’ leading to rogue operators dodging controls to dump huge piles of rubbish which costs a fortune to clean up.
Government boffins say their new Waste Crime Action Plan will be brought into force in 2027. The permit-based system will require waste handlers to undergo identity, criminal record and technical checks before receiving a permit.
They will also need to display their permit number in advertising, including on their vans, making it easier for the public to report unlicensed operators. For those mishandling waste, they will now face up to five years in prison.
Under the current system, a cow was legally approved to dispose of household rubbish. Ann Maidment, director of the Country Land and Business Association (CLA), successfully applied for a licence on behalf of one of her cows called Beau Vine.
The move to permitting will also give the Environment Agency stronger powers to revoke permits and issue enforcement notices.
Waste minister Mary Creagh said: “Waste cowboys have abused the system for too long, blighting our countryside and cities alike. Through our Waste Crime Action Plan, we’re introducing rigorous background checks for waste traders, shutting down corrupt operators, and kicking them out of the industry for good.
“This is just one measure we’re introducing to stamp out waste crime, with law breakers now facing up to five years behind bars thanks to tougher penalties.”
Philip Duffy, chief executive at the Environment Agency, added: “Waste crime is evolving, but so are we. These reforms give us the tools we need to fight back. With stronger powers to revoke permits and issue enforcement notices, we will move faster to shut down rogue operators and protect communities from the damage waste crime causes.
“The public are our eyes and ears. If you see fly-tipping or suspect an unlicensed operator, you must report it.”
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