COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL
MEETING OF SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL
Monday, February 10, 2025
QUESTION NO.21 (a)
QUESTION: Councillor F. Timmons
To ask the Chief Executive can he issue a report that residents associations and tidy towns could use in regards to litter and dumping- what the bye laws state and the fines involved, and requirements for the public to dispose of their waste?
REPLY:
Residents' associations and Tidy Towns committees play a crucial role in maintaining clean and litter-free communities. Understanding local bye-laws, associated fines, and proper waste disposal requirements is essential for effective community engagement.
Litter and Waste Management Bye-Laws in SDCC
South Dublin County Council has established specific bye-laws to prevent and control litter, as well as to regulate the storage, presentation, and segregation of household and commercial waste. These regulations are designed to maintain public spaces and ensure environmental sustainability.
Fines and Penalties
Under the Litter Pollution Act 1997, leaving or throwing litter in a public place is an offence. Offenders may receive an on-the-spot fine of €150. If the matter proceeds to the District Court and the offender is convicted, the maximum fine can be up to €4,000.
Additionally, SDCCs Waste Management – Household & Commercial Waste Bye-Laws outline penalties for non-compliance with waste presentation and segregation requirements. Specific fines and enforcement measures are detailed within these bye-laws.
All households and commercial properties must either use a authorised waste collector or transport the waste themselves to an authorised waste facility. Failure to comply with the bye-laws may result in a €75 Fixed Payment Notice being issued.
If the alleged offence continues the matter may be re-investigated under Section 32 of the Waste Management Act 1996 as amended where prosecution in the District Court could lead to a Class A fine of between €4,000 and €5,000.
Public Requirements for Waste Disposal
Residents and businesses are required to adhere to the following waste disposal guidelines:
- Proper Presentation: Waste must be stored in appropriate bins and presented for collection in accordance with the council's schedule. Improper presentation, such as leaving waste in plastic bags on the street, is prohibited.
- Segregation: Waste should be segregated into recyclables, organic waste, and general waste, following the council's guidelines to facilitate effective recycling and reduce landfill use.
- Use of Authorized Collectors: Only authorized waste collectors with valid permits should be used for waste disposal. Utilizing unauthorized collectors is an offence and may result in fines.
Community Engagement
Residents' associations and Tidy Towns committees can support these efforts by:
- Organizing Clean-Up Events: Regular community clean-ups can help maintain public spaces and foster community spirit. These clean up events can be organised in conjunction with SDCC Public Realm section.
- Educational Campaigns: Informing residents about proper waste disposal practices and the importance of adhering to bye-laws can lead to better compliance.
- Reporting Violations: Encouraging community members to report instances of illegal dumping or littering to the council can aid in enforcement efforts.
The attached bye laws and Litter by Law leaflet will be helpful to residents associations and tidy towns groups in sharing the knowledge and information with the community. By understanding and promoting adherence to these regulations, communities can work together to create a cleaner and more sustainable environment.