Dropping litter is illegal. However, according to an environmental study, more than two million pieces of litter are dropped in the UK every single day!

Litter takes years to break down, causing harm to wildlife and habitats, and there is even evidence to show that litter
contributes to further crime and a feeling of being unsafe.

Litter isn’t only wrappers and packaging, but also things like leftover takeaway food, which can attract vermin such as rats.

Cigarette butts are also classed as litter, and a survey carried out by keep Britain Tidy found cigarette litter on 78 per cent of the streets surveyed.

Cigarette butts are unsightly and are difficult to clean up. Smokers should use an ashtray or dedicated smoking litter bin, or take their litter home with them.

Councils and other authorities have responsibility for keeping public land as litter free as possible and they have a range of powers available to them to help tackle litter problems.

Fixed penalty charges of £50-£80 can be issued to individuals who drop litter and, if the offender is prosecuted and convicted in court, the fine could rise to £2,500.

The Council can also serve notices on other duty bodies, businesses, land owners and occupiers compelling them to clear up litter.  

Please report it!

If you see accumulations of litter in a public place, please report it to the Council. Note the location, type and amount of litter

Please call Customer Services on 01702 318111 or e-mail customerservices@rochford.gov.uk