Only ONE fly-tipping fine issued in Ross-shire since 2021
Since 2021, only ONE fine for fly-tipping in Ross-shire has been issued by the Highland Council — despite receiving numerous complaints, prompting a local MSP to state that she “hopes there is a good reason for the lack of action”.
Figures from the Highland Council, revealed by a Freedom of Information request, show that only one fixed penalty notice for fly-tipping in Ross-shire has been issued between January 2021 and September 2024.
The statistics covered Ross-shire wards Wester Ross, Strathpeffer and Lochalsh; Cromarty Firth; Tain and Easter Ross; Dingwall and Seaforth; and the Black Isle. This fine was issued in 2023, in the Dingwall and Seaforth ward.
During that time, the council received a total of 65 complaints from the public, with the majority of these being from the Black Isle ward.
However, between January 2019 and December 2020, the Highland Council did issue five fly-tipping fines in Ross-shire.
Among the six fixed penalty notices issued between January 2019 and September 2024, only two of these have been paid — creating a total income of £400. The council said that “no information has been declared for the other notices”.
MSP for the Highlands and Islands, Emma Roddick said: “It’s really important that, when someone has a valid concern, they are listened to and it’s dealt with wherever possible. I hope that there is good reason for the lack of action on at least 37 complaints in Ross-shire; fly tipping can have such a negative impact on community feel and amenity, as well as the environment. I am happy to support any constituents who are struggling to be heard on local issues.”
MSp for the Highlands and Islands, Ariane Burgess said: “I am deeply concerned by the recent revelation that only one fly-tipping fine has been issued across the Ross-shire wards since 2022, despite 38 complaints being received. This lack of enforcement is unacceptable and undermines our efforts to maintain clean and safe communities.
“Fly-tipping is not just an eyesore; it poses significant risks to public health and the environment. We must take stronger action to deter this illegal activity. I urge the Highland Council to review its enforcement policies and ensure that adequate resources are allocated to tackle this issue effectively.
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“Moreover, we need to address the root causes of fly-tipping. By designing products that reduce waste at all points in their life cycle, promoting recycling, and encouraging the reuse of materials, we can minimise the amount of waste that ends up being illegally dumped. This approach, sometimes called a “circular economy”, helps protect our environment and creates more sustainable jobs and businesses.
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“I call on all stakeholders, including local authorities, businesses, and residents, to work together to combat fly-tipping and support the transition to a circular economy. Together, we can create a cleaner, greener, and more responsible Ross-shire.”
A Highland Council spokesperson said: “The public and landowners are encouraged to report cases of fly-tipping, littering and dog fouling via the Council’s website so that appropriate follow up can be arranged and useful information on local trends can be assessed. The Council investigate cases of fly-tipping, littering and dog fouling and will pursue formal action where that is an appropriate and proportionate response and, crucially, where sufficient evidence is available. Often in cases evidence is not available to pursue formal action.
“The Council welcomes the Scottish Government’s work on the litter and fly-tipping strategy and support the objectives including the commitments to develop a more effective enforcement model and to improve guidance on enforcement approaches. The Environmental Health team are engaging with other Council’s on the litter and fly-tipping strategy and in 2025 will be reviewing what further actions can be taken to target this illegal and anti-social behaviour impacting Highland communities.”
