Joint Operation Targets Illegal Waste and Scrap Metal Activity Across the County

Friday, 19 September 2025 06:05

Wiltshire Council Environmental Enforcement Officers, working in close partnership with Wiltshire Police, carried out a series of coordinated operations across the county last week, as part of Rural Crime Action Week, to tackle fly-tipping, unlicensed waste carriers, and illegal scrap metal dealing.

As part of the initiative, officers stopped and inspected vehicles transporting waste or scrap metal to ensure compliance with licensing regulations. A total of 25 vehicles were stopped during the latest operation.

Cllr Martin Smith, Cabinet Member for Highways, Streetscene and Flooding, said: "This is a strong example of effective partnership working between Wiltshire Council and Wiltshire Police, and it’s not just about stopping people without waste carriers' licences – it also helps us to raise awareness.

“I’d like to thank the police for their continued support in helping us tackle environmental crime. These operations are proving valuable, and we plan to carry out more across the county."

A/Chief Inspector Andy Lemon said: “Fly-tipping causes serious harm to our environment and is an issue we must tackle head-on here in Wiltshire. It not only spoils our beautiful countryside but also places a significant financial burden on our already stretched local authorities.

“If you witness fly-tipping, please take photographs of the dumped items if it’s safe to do so, and use our online tool to find the appropriate service to report this antisocial behaviour.”

All scrap metal dealers operating in Wiltshire must hold a valid scrap metal dealer’s licence and an upper-tier waste carrier’s licence. Licences are specific to each local authority area, and collectors must be licensed in the area where they operate. Cash transactions for scrap metal are illegal, and residents are urged to be cautious of ‘cash for scrap’ operators.

Businesses that produce or transport waste, including scrap metal and garden waste, must have a valid waste carriers licence issued by the Environment Agency and maintain proper waste transfer documentation. Failure to comply can result in fixed penalty notices or prosecution.

Residents and businesses are reminded of their legal duty of care when disposing of waste. If using a waste clearance service, they should:

Check for a valid upper-tier waste carrier licence
Record the waste carrier’s licence number
Request a receipt or waste transfer note
Note the vehicle registration and a description of the individuals involved
Ask where the waste will be taken

For more information, people should go to: https://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/fly-tipping

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