Council’s warning of $133,450 fines for illegal dumping

Sunshine Coast Council has reminded residents that hefty fines of up to $133,450 are in place for any illegal dumping activity.

Illegal dumping activity at Kunda Park from earlier this year.

SUNSHINE Coast Council has reminded residents that hefty fines of up to $133,450 are in place for any illegal dumping activity.

In wake of the coronavirus pandemic, council officers are not reporting a dumping increase but say local charities are being affected.

Illegal dumping can include items such as bags of household rubbish and garden waste, and also includes larger scale dumping such as household goods, furniture and construction materials.

“Dumping waste in our environment, rather than disposing of it in the correct way, is illegal and carries penalties of up to $133,450,” a council statement read.

“It is also unsightly, can be harmful to the environment and is unnecessary.

“Household waste should be disposed of via the weekly general waste bin collections.”

Council waste facilities are open and most recyclable items continue to be recycled as per normal, including white goods, scrap metal, e-waste, batteries, cardboard, paints and oils.

Illegal dumping is the unlawful deposit of any type of waste material 200 litres in volume or more and penalties apply as per the Queensland Government Waste Reduction and Recycling Act 2011.

Penalties for illegal dumping range from $2135 to $133,450.

If you witness or see instances of illegal dumping it can be reported to the council by calling 5475 7272 or to the Queensland Government on 13 QGOV (7468).

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