Illegal Dumping

Marrickville Council, through its free booked clean up service and ongoing education, is aiming to reduce the incidence of illegal dumping in the Marrickville area.

What is illegal dumping?

Illegal dumping is disposing of waste on public places other than approved areas. It is illegal to dump waste on streets, laneways, parks, footpaths, nature strips, car parks and waterways.

If caught illegally dumping, you could receive on the spot fines of up to $200 for an individual and $400 for a corporation. 

In the event of dumping large amounts of waste, council will pursue court action to recover clean up costs. Depending on the severity of the dump, clean up costs can range into tens of thousands of dollars.

What is council doing to resolve the problem?

Marrickville Council has introduced an illegal dumping patrol vehicle and officer to assist in reducing illegal dumping in the area by monitoring dumping 'hot spots', providing education to residents and investigating illegal dumps.

Along with the patrol vehicle, Council has installed surveillance cameras in problem locations to monitor and catch citizens dumping in the area. The cameras have already had a positive effect in reducing illegal dumping. Since its inception, many fines have been issued to encourage citizens to keep our environment safe and clean.

Why does this effect me?

Illegal dumping costs Marrickville Council rate payers approximately $1 million every year to clean up. That's money that could be spent on other more worthwhile projects.

Why is illegal dumping a problem?

Illegal dumping is a problem because it:

  • Looks unsightly
  • Can be a health and safety hazard.
  • Blocks drains, pedestrian access and pollutes waterways.
  • Is costly to clean up.

What can I do about it?

  • Always dispose of your waste correctly.
  • Be on the look out for anyone putting waste in the wrong place and report those responsible for illegal dumping to Council by calling the Citizens' Service Centre on 9335 2222.

What can I do with my waste?

  • Place it in the correct council provided garbage, recycling and green waste bins for regular collection.
  • Book a FREE general or white goods clean up online or phone 9335 2222.
  • Utilise Council's free E Household Chemical Cleanout/e-Waste collection service to remove unwanted waste such as computers, televisions, microwaves, paint, car batteries, fuel, pesticides and automotive sump oil. Contact Council  to find out details  about the next  event or visit our Household Chemical CleanOut and e-Waste drop off page. 
  • Take other items to Rockdale Transfer Station; many items are accepted free of charge.

Council thanks you for your co-operation with these requests as compliance ensures efficiency and continuity of the service, and a better place to live.
 

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