For persistent littering, the maximum penalty in the United Kingdom is £2,500. Local authorities have the power to impose fines on-the-spot to anyone caught littering. These fines are usually less than £100.
The Magistrates Court hears cases. In 2003, approximately 400 litterers were brought before the UK police. In some cases, offenders could also be subject to a £80 fixed penalty for littering by the local litter warden. According to section 87 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990, littering is defined as a person who leaves litter in public places. This also applies to litter thrown from cars.
To deal with litter-offenders, police officers and litter wardens have the necessary training. The public can also report littering incidents to police officers, local authorities, or litter wardens. They will then decide whether they want to pursue further action. Although it is possible to bring a private case, this would cost the person and require strong evidence to get convicted.
Data released by Freedom of Information requests in 2018 showed that less than half of fixed penalty notices issued to Scottish councils were actually paid.
Keep Britain Tidy campaign is run by Keep Britain Tidy, an environmental charity.
Related Products And Info: