A generic picture of a rubbish bag
A business received a £500 Fixed Penalty Notice after disposing of significant amounts of waste in another business’s private bin store without permission.
Every business has a legal duty to ensure that its waste, however small or large the amount, is disposed of properly by a licensed waste carrier.
Cornwall Council investigated this matter in summer 2024 after a business reported that additional waste was being put with its rubbish.
Enforcement officers from the Council’s Community Protection Team were able to identify the business from which the waste originated. When presented with the evidence, the business admitted the offence.
The business received a £500 Fixed Penalty Notice for fly tipping, which has now been paid in full.
They were also given advice and information about their legal obligation to dispose of all commercial waste through a licensed carrier. Business waste cannot be included with kerbside rubbish or taken to the Household waste and Recycle Centres (HWRCs).
Councillor Martyn Alvey, portfolio holder for Environment at Cornwall Council, said: “It is totally unacceptable for a business to expect another business to get rid of their waste.
“All businesses, big or small, must ensure that all their waste is removed by a licensed waste carrier.
“Our enforcement team work hard to ensure there is a level playing field for all businesses and that they are disposing of their rubbish legally and responsibly”
Advice for businesses on commercial waste and the law can be found on the Cornwall Council website.
Press release issued on February 24, 2025