The South West has recorded the fewest incidents of fly-tipping in the country for the second consecutive year.
Recent statistics from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) show that between April 2024 and March 2025, the South West had the lowest rate of fly-tipping incidents in England, with just 9 incidents per 1,000 people.
The data also reveals that the majority of fly-tipping nationwide involves household waste, including material from house or shed clearances, old furniture, carpets, and waste from small-scale DIY projects.
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick said “I’m pleased that DEFRA’s latest statistics show the South West has the lowest rate of fly-tipping incidents in the country for the second year running.
“My office, alongside Dorset Council, has funded a dedicated fly-tipping enforcement officer to investigate incidents and bring offenders to justice. Since the introduction of this role, fixed penalty notices for waste crime have increased by 78%.
“That said, there is still more to do. I remain committed to working with Dorset Police, partner agencies, and residents affected by fly-tipping through the Dorset Partnership Against Rural Crime to tackle this issue together.”
The PCC has previously campaigned for tougher penalties, a national offenders list, and increased funding for police in rural areas to combat waste crime. He has also given evidence to the House of Lords Environment & Climate Change Committee on the issue.
Cllr, Jon Andrews, Dorset Council’s Cabinet Member for Place services, said: ““Working with the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner is helping us take much tougher action against fly tippers.
“Last year we issued 80 Fixed Penalty Notices – almost double the number in 2024 – and we’re seeing the impact of that stronger enforcement on the ground. By increasing fines, seizing vehicles linked to waste crime, and following up every report, we’re sending a clear message that fly tipping won’t be tolerated in Dorset.
We’ll keep working with the OPCC, Dorset Police, partner agencies, and our communities to drive incidents down even further.”