£2,000 Fine and Seizure in Fly-Tipping Crackdown

A vehicle linked to multiple fly-tipping offences in Maidstone has been seized during a joint operation between Maidstone Borough Council’s Waste Crime Team and Kent Police’s Maidstone Task Force.

The operation, which targeted waste crime across the borough, involved proactive patrols through Staplehurst, Boughton Monchelsea, Loose, Shepway, and Boxley – all known fly-tipping hotspots. Officers stopped several vehicles to carry out waste carrier checks, verify waste transfer documentation, and assess roadworthiness.

While most vehicles were compliant, drivers who occasionally carry waste received guidance on their legal responsibilities.

The highlight of the action, which took place on 20 August, was locating and seizing a target vehicle suspected of being a habitual fly-tipping offender. The owner was fined £2,000.

A dumped caravan full of waste was also discovered. With no identifiable markings, it was served a removal notice and will be destroyed.

Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Environmental Services and Enforcement, Liberal Democrat Councillor Clive English, said:

“Operations like this are a testament to the strong partnerships we have with local authorities and government agencies. Tackling waste crime is about protecting both our environment and our communities – and Maidstone’s Liberal Democrats are determined to keep up the pressure on offenders.

“Unlicensed or non-compliant waste disposal can cause serious harm, and these proactive checks send a clear message: fly-tipping will not be tolerated in Maidstone.”

Maidstone Borough Council, led by the Liberal Democrat, Green Independent Coalition continues to take a zero-tolerance approach to fly-tipping and will issue Fixed Penalty Notices or prosecute offenders wherever possible.