A man who burnt off construction and demolition waste at his Winter Valley property has been fined $3,000 without conviction and ordered to pay a further $3,000 in costs to EPA by the Ballarat Magistrates court.
In July and August last year, EPA's Environmental Crime Branch worked closely with the City of Ballarat to identify the responsible party and bring the matter before the court.
The individual was fined for receiving industrial waste, burning industrial waste and for failing to comply with a regulatory notice.
"Burning construction and demolition waste is illegal and poses a serious risk to human health, the environment, and the safety of surrounding communities," said EPA South West Regional Manager, Martha-Rose Loughnane.
"Everyone has a duty to prevent pollution and environmental harm. EPA expects individuals and businesses to meet their obligations under the Environment Protection Act 2017. When they don't, we will use our full enforcement powers to hold them accountable," Ms Loughnane said.
Burning industrial or construction waste, which includes treated timber, plastics, plasterboard, and other demolition materials, is strictly prohibited. Informing the Country Fire Authority or Fire Rescue Victoria about a plan to burn material does not authorise waste burning. Council permits for burning specify that commercial or industrial waste burning is not allowed and may result in fines.
'Fines for illegal waste burning can be even greater, and further sanctions may apply depending on the severity of the offence. The Magistrate said the offender was just spared a conviction."
