Hammersmith and Fulham Council Raises Littering Fines to £250

In a decisive effort to combat littering and enhance community cleanliness, Hammersmith and Fulham Council has announced significant increases in Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs) for littering and related offences. Starting on November 1, 2024, fines for littering will rise to £250, with an early payment option of £200. This move aims to deter littering in the West London borough while also addressing concerns over waste management.

The council’s Law Enforcement Team will implement these changes alongside increases in penalties for graffiti and flyposting, which are set to rise from £100 to £500, with early payment reduced to £250. Additionally, breaches of the Household Duty of Care will see fines increase from £400 to £600, while violations related to commercial waste receptacles will rise from £110 to £150.

These adjustments follow decisions made by the council’s Cabinet last year, marking the first increase in fines since December 2017. During the discussions, Conservative councillor Adronie Alford expressed her concern regarding residents facing FPNs for litter caused by refuse collectors, emphasizing the need for accountability among waste management teams. “I don’t want any of my residents to get a fixed penalty because of something that hasn’t been caused by a resident,” she stated.

Council Leader Stephen Cowan shared similar frustrations about waste left by collectors but noted improvements in service under the contract with waste management company Veolia. The revised penalty structure aims to maintain clean streets while ensuring penalties are fairly issued.

Changes to Fly-Tipping Regulations

In addition to the increases in FPNs, the council has made a pivotal change regarding fly-tipping. Previously attracting a fine of £1,000, the council has clarified that fly-tipping fines will only apply to rubbish dumped in public spaces that is not part of regular household waste collection. Items such as bulky furniture and mattresses will fall under this category, while regular household waste that is improperly disposed of will now be treated as a littering offence.

The decision paper outlines a balanced approach to enforcement, aiming to keep streets clear of waste without imposing excessive burdens on residents. Council officers indicated that while the financial impact of these changes is unpredictable, all funds collected from the FPNs will be allocated towards costs associated with litter removal and enforcement.

Comparisons with Nearby Councils

Hammersmith and Fulham’s fines align closely with those imposed by other local authorities. For example, the neighbouring Kensington and Chelsea Council charges £300 for littering and graffiti offences, while Hounslow has a notably higher fine of £500 for those caught littering.

The council’s adjustments reflect ongoing efforts to foster a cleaner community amid rising concerns about litter and waste management. As these changes take effect, residents will be encouraged to contribute to a cleaner environment while understanding the implications of improper waste disposal. The council has committed to monitoring the effectiveness of the new fines closely, ensuring that enforcement remains fair and effective.