EPA blitz on rogue skip bin operators

Rogue operators in the skip bin industry are on notice. EPA Victoria’s Illegal Waste Dumping Taskforce has zero tolerance for environmental crimes, and we are coming for you.

Skip bin businesses in EPA’s South West and North Metropolitan regions will be the first to be targeted.

EPA’s authorised officers will be running snap inspections focused on bin hire companies and their transporters, checking to see that every piece of waste they pick up has been properly accounted for and disposed of legally.

If operators can’t prove they are doing the right thing, they face significant fines, public naming and shaming, and potential court action. They will also be forced to pay to clean up their mess.

Executive Director of Operations Rachel Gualano said too many operators were charging customers for legal disposal of construction and demolition waste and then dumping it on public land or unlicensed private property.

“It’s illegal and irresponsible, and it potentially puts both the operator and the community at risk,” Ms Gualano said.

“It’s also a huge cost to land managers such as councils and Parks Victoria, who are forced to clean up after these criminals. They are profiting at the expense of all Victorians.”

As the EPA-led Taskforce ramps up its activities, officers will have access to new surveillance technology and intelligence streams that will make catching dumpers even easier.

She also warned those who hired dodgy operators could also be held responsible if the waste ended up in the wrong place.

“We now routinely trace waste back through the supply chain using documentation, serial numbers and other forensic methods, and we can fine or prosecute both skip bin companies, those who engage their services and those that receive the waste unlawfully.

“If you hire someone to dispose of waste, make sure they can provide a docket showing it was taken to a lawful place.”

All Victorians have a part to play in preventing waste dumping. If you see illegal dumping or know anything about it, report it to the EPA on 1300 372 842.