Fly-tipping remains a major issue across the UK, with hundreds of thousands of incidents recorded each year. While figures fluctuate, official data consistently shows it is widespread — particularly in easily accessible locations such as car parks, rural lanes, industrial estates, and open land.
Current statistics (England)
- Local authorities reported around 1 million fly-tipping incidents in 2023–24
- Approximately 65% involved household waste, including furniture, garden waste, and general rubbish
- Around 20% involved commercial or construction waste
- About 43% occurred on public highways, with the remainder on council land and private property
Are incidents increasing?
- Fly-tipping rose significantly during the COVID-19 period, linked to reduced access to recycling centres
- Overall numbers have stabilised nationally, but many areas still report local or regional increases
- Key drivers include rising disposal costs, limited enforcement resources, and unlicensed waste carriers
Regional trends
- Urban areas such as London, Birmingham, and Manchester typically report the highest volumes
- Rural locations often see larger-scale dumping on farmland, access roads, and remote sites
- Industrial and commercial areas are frequently targeted due to easier vehicle access
What’s being done
- Local authorities and the Environment Agency are increasing joint enforcement action
- Use of CCTV, ANPR cameras, and vehicle seizure powers is becoming more common
- Ongoing focus on preventative measures and hotspot monitoring
Practical takeaway
Fly-tipping is not just persistent — it adapts. Sites that are open, poorly lit, or easy to access by vehicle are most at risk. Preventing access is one of the most effective deterrents.
At Aremco Barriers, we supply heavy-duty steel barriers, gates, and bollards designed to restrict unauthorised vehicle access — helping reduce the risk of fly-tipping on private land, industrial estates, and rural sites.
