A new scheme to crack down on litter offenders in Bexley with more patrols and higher fines has resulted in a substantial increase in the number of fixed penalty notices issued.

In 2023 1,243 fixed penalty notices were issued for littering while in 2024 figures rose by 85% with 2,297 fixed penalty notices issued to date. In addition in 2024 more than 1,007 fixed penalty notices were issued for fly tipping.

Councillor Richard Diment – Bexley’s Cabinet Member for Places said:

Keeping Bexley clean and green is a top priority for the Council, and we’ve always been clear that we have zero tolerance of littering.  

This year we’ve replaced more than 150 old bins with modern ones in town centres and installed 200 additional new bins at bus stops in the Borough enabling people to recycle as well as dispose of general waste so there is no excuse for littering. 

We will continue to come down hard on those who damage our local areas by doing this”.

Littering, dog fouling and fly tipping anywhere in a public place are all criminal offences. On the spot fixed penalty notices of up to £300 will be issued to anyone caught littering or not clearing up after their dogs.

Fly tipping can result in a fine of up to £1,000. If a recycling bank is full do not throw your rubbish or recycling on the ground as this will be classed as fly tipping. Similarly if you pay for a company to dispose of your waste and they are not licenced, you could be liable for a £500 fine.

Drivers can also be fined £300 if they or their passengers are caught throwing litter out of their car window while driving. If you see this happening take the details including the vehicle registration and any camera or dashcam footage that you have of the offence and email them to areasupportteam@bexley.gov.uk or call 020 8303 7777.