City prosecutes illegal dumping offender

A Huntingdale resident has been successfully prosecuted for dumping rubbish, as the City of Gosnells steps up efforts to target illegal dumping.

He was caught in the act dumping household rubbish at Holmes Road in Southern River on 28 October 2024, thanks to a trial program using covert CCTV cameras at known dumping hotspots across the City.

The resident pleaded guilty in the Armadale Magistrate’s Court on Thursday 20 February.

He was fined $800 and ordered to pay costs of $1,085.

Mayor Terresa Lynes said illegal dumping was a problem across the State and the City of Gosnells was no exception.

“It costs the City of Gosnells upwards of $250,000 each year to remove and dispose of illegally dumped rubbish, which could be much better spent on services and programs for our community,” she said.

“The City is currently in the process of prosecuting a further three people filmed by our CCTV cameras and is investigating another 16 offences. There is no excuse for illegal dumping – it’s a serious health hazard and eyesore, and our community is fed up with it.

“The City of Gosnells won’t hesitate to prosecute offenders so, if you’re thinking about dumping your rubbish rather than disposing of it legally, remember to smile for our cameras.”

The penalty for individuals dumping rubbish is up to $5,000. For businesses or corporate entities, the penalty is up to $10,000.

If you see dumped rubbish or someone dumping rubbish, take note of any vehicle registration, vehicle type and a description of the person, and report it to the City by calling 9397 3000.

If it is safe to take photographs, or you have dashcam footage, these can also be provided to the City.