Britons are being warned they may need to check the rules surrounding wheelie bins or they could be slapped with a fixed penalty from their local council.
Gardening experts at GardenBuildingsDirect.co.uk have revealed the regulations surrounding wheelie bins and how homeowners could be hit with a fine if they’re not careful.
Under section 46A of the Environmental Protection Act 1990, households could be hit with a fixed penalty if the placement of their wheelie bin causes or is likely to cause a nuisance.
Some examples include wheelie bins obstructing neighbours, and wheelie bins and waste bags restricting access to the pavement or road for several days. Property owners’ bins that are attracting vermin like rats and foxes could also be hit with a fixed penalty.
Penalties could be as high as £80, however, households do have the right to explain why they should not pay the notice.
To avoid a fine, homeowners should try to familiarise themselves with the local council rules on rubbish such as what goes into each bin and what day each bin is collected.
Furthermore, following simple courtesies like only putting bins out for collection the night before and bringing it in as soon as the rubbish has been collected will ensure you are not slapped with a hefty fine.
A spokesperson for Garden Buildings Direct said: “It’s surprising what you can get fined for now, but using some common sense will mean you avoid any issues.
“Some simple bin etiquette will help. Only ever put your bin out on bin day – not days in advance – and once you’re home and it’s empty, bring it back to the side or back of the house.
“Do be careful when leaving them out. Avoid blocking driveways, bus stops, cycle paths and footpaths.
“If you’re going to be away, ask a neighbour or family member to do your bins for you. There’s nothing worse than smelly rubbish sitting in the bin for weeks.
“Make sure you look after your bin too. If it gets damaged then it’s worth contacting your local council. Many will replace or fix them free of charge.
“Finally, and this sounds obvious, but make sure you’re putting your rubbish in the correct bin. Bin colours aren’t uniform across the country so if you’re in a different area, it is important to check.
“Check too what can go in recycling and garden rubbish. You may be surprised at what is and isn’t allowed.”
