Illegal dumping

Report illegal dumping

Illegal dumping can be easily and anonymously reported by using the EPA’s ridonline.epa.nsw.gov.au or by calling our Customer Service on (08) 8080 3300.

If you find waste being dumped on the side of the road or out bush, reporting the incident can help us find the person accountable and hold them accountable.

When you use the EPA’s RID online, the EPA will notify the Council so we can respond in the most appropriate way. You will also be helping protect human health and the environment, find and clean up dumped waste and assist the EPA to develop a comprehensive state-wide database of illegal dumping incidents. This will help identifying, monitor and assist in the development of strategies to help reduce illegal dumping.

What is illegal dumping?

Illegal dumping is the disposal of waste in our environment without the correct approvals (an environment protection licence or planning approvals). It can include placing unwanted household items on the footpath when there is no council collection, dumping rubbish or green waste in the bush or on the side of a road or even businesses or contractors who are paid to correctly dispose of commercial waste but instead choose to dump it instead.

It is counter-productive because it normalises dumping behaviour in an area, attracts more dumping, and undermines legitimate sharing and reuse methods, such as selling or giving away online.

Why is illegal dumping a problem?

Dumped rubbish harms the environment, causes pollution, and attracts vermin such as rats, mice and cockroaches. It also attracts additional dumping and other illegal behaviours which lead to areas become unattractive to the local community. Illegal dumping can also present health and safety hazards particularly when it includes sharp objects, asbestos and glass, create a fire risk and it’s costly to the Council and the community.

Enforcement and fines for illegal dumping

Illegal dumping can incur an on the spot fines and liability under the POEO Act.

Council officers regularly patrol local areas, investigate illegally dumped material and can issue Clean-up Notices and/or fines to illegal dumpers.

Services and resources to help prevent illegal dumping

There is no need to dump unwanted items and materials. Households are offered up to five free visits to the Broken Hill Waste Management Facility per year, offer free deposit of recyclable materials and household hazardous waste and have a weekly kerbside collection service.

Drop off hazardous items

Many hazardous materials, such as E-Waste, chemicals, globes, oils, paints and batteries can be responsibly disposed of at the Community Recycling Centre. To learn more visit our Household Hazardous Waste Page.

More information

Please contact Customer Service on (08) 8080 3300 or visit the EPA website