Property owners are being cautioned that they could be hit with fines this autumn if fallen leaves and other garden debris on their driveways are confused for fly-tipping. Specialists have said that local authorities have witnessed a surge in reports where leaf heaps, hedge trimmings or garden rubbish left outside homes have been incorrectly identified as illegally dumped refuse.
In certain instances, householders have been served with fixed penalty notices of up to £400. A representative for Bury-based Wheeldon Brothers said: “Many people do not realise that if garden waste is left in a public place or on land where it does not belong, it can be classed as fly-tipping.
“Even if you have simply raked leaves to the edge of your driveway and plan to clear them later, there is a risk they could blow onto the pavement or road and attract a complaint.”
Local authorities can pursue enforcement measures under the Environmental Protection Act 1990 if refuse is abandoned in a manner that creates a nuisance or presents a danger to public safety.
This encompasses garden debris, which should be discarded through council collections, composting, or at a recycling facility.
The spokesperson said: “If leaves or branches are blocking drains or pathways, the council may see it as an obstruction or a hazard. The safest approach is to collect and dispose of garden waste promptly rather than leaving it piled up where it could be misinterpreted as fly-tipping.”
The company also cautioned that autumn storms and high winds can exacerbate the issue by scattering leaves across pavements and into roads, heightening the risk of complaints.
“A quick tidy-up can save you from an unnecessary fine,” advised Wheeldon Brothers. “If you are unsure about your local rules, check with your council before leaving garden waste outside your property.”
