Issue - meetings

As detailed in the recommendations.

            Councillor Thomas introduced the Fixed Penalty Notices for Fly Tipping Events report which sought approval for the introduction of Fixed Penalty Notices (FPN’s) for fly tipping offences in the event of low level fly tipping.

            The Council received around 1,000 reports of fly tipping in the County every year.  A small number of those were significant in size but the vast majority were small scale events such as black bags and bulky household items.  It was not appropriate to issue FPN’s in every case of fly tipping and in the event of more significant events, prosecuting should and would remain the most effective way of dealing with the situation.

            Local authorities could set the amount of the fly tipping FPN at a level between £150 and £400, with a default amount of £200 if no amount was specified.  An option for early payment of an amount no less than £120 could be made available and local authorities could retain the receipts to help contribute to the costs of dealing with fly tipping.   It was suggested that the level of FPN in Flintshire be set initially at £200 and be monitored over the first year of introduction.  The recognised standard period of 14 days for payment would apply and it was proposed that a reduced charge of £120 would be offered if it was paid within 10 days.

Councillor Bithell felt the amount should be at the higher end as it would act as a better deterrent.  The Chief Executive explained that it was reasonable to set the price in the mid-range given it was a new initiative with no local charging history. 

RESOLVED:

(a)       That the use of the new legislation to issue Fixed Penalty Notices for low level fly tipping offences be approved;

(b)       That the level of a Fixed Penalty Notice at £200, with a discount of £80 for early payment be approved; and

(c)        That a review of the level of Fixed Penalty Notice charge after one year be undertaken and delegated authority be granted to the Chief Officer after consultation with the Cabinet Member and Portfolio holder, to vary the level of the charge, if necessary.