Fly-tipping is one of those things that can make a lovely walk round Gnosall feel a bit grim. It is also illegal and it can be dangerous - think sharp metal, asbestos, chemicals, or just rats and mess. The good news is that reporting it is straightforward, and the quicker it is logged, the quicker it can be dealt with.

What counts as fly-tipping?

Fly-tipping is basically dumping waste where it should not be - bags of rubbish in a lay-by, a mattress left in a field gateway, rubble tipped on a verge, or a fridge dumped down a lane. It can happen on public land (verges, footpaths) or private land.

How to report fly-tipping (and what to note)

If it is in the Stafford Borough area, start with Stafford Borough Council's guidance and reporting route here:

https://www.staffordbc.gov.uk/dumping-of-waste-and-fly-tipping

When you report it, it helps to include:

• The exact location (landmark, road name, nearest house number, or a what3words reference if you use it)
• What the waste is (general rubbish, building waste, tyres, white goods etc)
• Approximate amount (one bag, a car boot load, a pile)
• Any details of vehicles or people involved (only if you saw it - do not put yourself at risk)
• Photos if it is safe to take them

If it is urgent or looks hazardous

If there is an immediate danger (for example, chemicals leaking, fire risk, or the waste is blocking the road), use the appropriate emergency route. For anything non-emergency but safety-related on the highway, you can also check Staffordshire County Council's reporting options:

https://www.staffordshire.gov.uk/

A quick reminder: protect yourself and your neighbours

• Do not touch unknown waste - especially if it could be asbestos, needles, or chemicals
• If you pay someone to take waste away, make sure they are legitimate - you can still get in trouble if your waste is dumped
• If the problem keeps cropping up in the same spot, let your parish councillors know so it can be raised locally too: https://www.gnosallparishcouncil.gov.uk/

Fly-tipping is antisocial and expensive to clear up - but a good, clear report from a local resident really does make a difference.

Downloadable Advice

Household Rubbish and the Law

This leaflet outlines householders' legal responsibilities for waste disposal, including the Household Waste Duty of Care regulations and potential penalties for illegal fly tipping. It provides guidance on verifying waste carriers and lists approved methods for disposing of household waste in Stafford Borough.

Download PDF