Cornwall Council has increased the maximum fixed penalty for fly-tipping to £5,000 as part of a tougher approach to tackling illegal waste dumping across the Duchy.
The authority says fly-tipping remains a serious problem, blighting communities, damaging the environment and costing taxpayers money to clean up.
Fly-tipping is defined as the illegal dumping of liquid or solid waste on land or in water, often carried out to avoid the cost of disposing of rubbish legally.
Cornwall Council has warned that fly-tips can be hazardous, unsightly and harmful to wildlife and waterways. As well as creating environmental problems, clearing and safely disposing of illegally dumped waste places an additional financial burden on public services.
The council stressed that not all waste-related reports are classed as fly-tipping. Common issues that are frequently reported incorrectly include rubbish or recycling being put out too early for collection, waste not being placed in the correct bin or container, and bins or recycling being left in locations that obstruct roads or footpaths.
Residents who discover a fly-tip are being urged not to touch or disturb the waste, as it may contain dangerous materials such as broken glass, chemicals or discarded syringes. Instead, they should note the location, time and date of the discovery, assess the type and quantity of waste from a safe distance, and take photographs where possible.
Anyone who witnesses a fly-tipping incident is encouraged to gather details that could help an investigation, including descriptions of those involved, the type of waste being dumped, and information about any vehicles used, such as registration numbers, colour and make.
Fly-tipping can be reported on both public and private land. Cornwall Council said waste dumped on council-owned land will usually be removed within 48 hours, although this could take longer if investigations are ongoing or specialist equipment is required. On private land, responsibility for clearing the waste rests with the landowner, though the council may still investigate and take enforcement action.
The authority said it will seek to prosecute offenders where appropriate. In addition to the £5,000 fixed penalty notice, those convicted in court can face unlimited fines, prison sentences and court costs.
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