Nillumbik Shire Council is taking a hard line on illegal rubbish dumping following the success of its anti-graffiti program.

Nillumbik Shire Council Mayor Cr Peter Clarke said Council is going hard on illegal rubbish dumping and enforcing to the full extent of the law.

“Council has had 598 reports of illegal rubbish dumping and litter since January and we are encouraging residents to dob in a dumper.”

The Environment Protection Act allows the EPA and Council to issue on-the-spot fines up to $1250. Court action can be taken with a maximum fine of $16,000 or one month imprisonment for serious dumping offences.

“Residents can report illegal rubbish dumping problem by calling the Shire on 9433 3111 or visit our website to report online or call 1300 372 842 EPA pollution 24-hour hotline,” Cr Clarke said.

Deputy Mayor and Bunjil Ward Cr Karen Egan said illegal rubbish dumping is a community issue and requires a community solution.

“We are disgusted by the recent rubbish dumping at various sites around Cottles Bridge and ask residents to assist Council by reporting offenders,” Cr Egan said.

“I want to thank the Cottles Bridge community for the many calls we received and their concern for the environment in Nillumbik.

“Residents are urged to report by make a note of the date and time, location, type of dumped material and amount and other information like the car rego or description of the person.”

Illegal rubbish dumping of large items of rubbish on public land such as roadsides, bushland reserves and parks or private land is a criminal offence and can incur heavy penalties.

Common household items like mattresses, furniture, TVs and couches are among the rubbish. Council offers a free hard waste service once a year to residents; call 9433 3512 to book your collection.