Waste on private land can create a public health hazard or attract vermin. We can make the landowner clear the waste if necessary.
Noxious waste
Noxious waste can be rotting food or anything that is potentially harmful, such as needles. If you find this waste on private land and the landowner cannot be found or will not clear it quickly, you should contact us.
We will come out as soon as we can and if necessary, serve a notice on the landowner for them to clear the waste. If they do not clear it, we will consider doing it ourselves and recharging them. We may also consider prosecution which could result in a fine.
Waste that attracts vermin
Vermin, especially rats, will try to find food and warmth and will be attracted to land that has food waste or soft furnishings, such as sofas or mattresses left on it. If a landowner is not dealing with this issue, you should report it to us.
We will come out to check the land and if the waste is not noxious, we may serve a notice on the landowner for them to clear the items. If they do not comply with the notice we may also consider prosecution which could result in a fine.
Untidy sites
Large or multiple items left on land and properties being left derelict can be assessed by us.
We are only likely to take action where the state of the property is in a significantly poor condition and having a serious effect on the neighbourhood. We will visit to determine whether the condition meets our threshold.
We will only consider taking action on properties with graffiti where the language or images are offensive or inflammatory.
Report rubbish and waste on private land
You should try and talk to the owners or people living in the property before reporting it to us. They may not be aware that it is causing an issue and may clear the waste themselves.
If no action is taken, you can report it to us by email to environmental.protection@bcpcouncil.gov.uk.
In order for us to investigate your complaint, your email must include:
- your name and address
- your contact information
- the address of the property you are reporting
- a description of the waste
- a photo of the waste (if possible)