Community asked to help stamp out illegal dumping of rubbish
Council has called on the community to help keep Kingston clean and tidy and report any illegal dumping of rubbish.
We spend at least $200,000 of ratepayer's money each year removing dumped rubbish from local streets, parks, and other open spaces.
Kingston Mayor Steve Staikos said while most people do the right thing, unfortunately we are seeing an increase in illegally dumped rubbish.
"We need your help to keep our neighbourhoods clean and to report those who have dumped rubbish. It is an offence for a person to just dump unwanted rubbish on their nature strip and in our parks and other open spaces."
People found guilty of dumping rubbish face fines of over $6,000, and Kingston Council actively investigates dumped rubbish to identify its origin. We have CCTV cameras that are moved around key dumping hot spots in industrial areas and our Green Wedge and have caught illegal dumpers.
"Council will collect the rubbish as quickly as possible, the sooner it is reported the sooner it can be collected," said Cr Staikos.
"If you spot someone dumping rubbish please note down as much detail as possible and consider taking photos, as the evidence will assist officers in their investigations and potential prosecutions."
You can make a report online at kingston.vic.gov.au or phone 1300 653 356.
People who have unwanted rubbish are encouraged to pass on any working items to op shops or make use of the upcoming free annual hard waste collection that will get underway in September.
The free hard waste collection service runs over six weeks from Monday 6 September and covers 65,000 properties, starting from Kingston's north, before moving through the municipality to the south.
"These free hard waste collections provide an opportunity for Kingston's residents to dispose of e-waste, white goods, furniture and mattresses, among other approved household items," said Cr Staikos. "Residents who have a domestic waste service can also book a hard waste collection at other times of the year for $62.50." Residents will receive a pamphlet, providing information on the annual hard waste collection dates and what items are safe to put out.
