The Act contains provisions for the:
The Act allows for KABC, local government, police and other litter enforcement agencies to take action against those who litter. This action can be in the form of 'on-the-spot fines', or as reports to the KABC which are followed up by fines being sent to the offenders.
Not paying your fine can lead to court action or result in your fine being sent to the Fines Enforcement Registry which has the power to withdraw licences until the fine is paid.
Littering occurs where a person deposits any unwanted item or material on land or water.
| Offence | Penalty- Individual | Penalty- Corporation |
|---|---|---|
| Littering – cigarette butt | $200 | $500 |
| Littering- general | $200 | $500 |
| Bill Posting | $200 | $500 |
| Bill posting on a vehicle | $200 | $500 |
| Depositing domestic or commercial waste in a public receptacle | $200 | $500 |
| Transporting load inadequately secured | $200 | N/A |
| Littering that creates a public risk *** | $500 | $2000 |
***Examples include: Breaking glass, metal or earthenware , littering of car bodies and car parts, batteries, hazardous chemicals or medicines, fridges and freezers with doors attached, tyres, lit cigarettes and syringes.
The maximum penalties for littering offences are $5,000 for individuals and $10,000 for corporations, or in the case of offences against the litter regulations, $5,000 for both individuals and corporations.
Illegal dumping may be prosecuted under the Environmental Protection Act 1986, carrying a maximum penalty of $62,500 (individuals) and $125,000 (corporate bodies).
In cases of littering from vehicles, where neither the litterer nor the driver of the vehicle can be identified, the person responsible for the vehicle (usually the registered owner) will be deemed to have committed the offence and will have to pay the fine unless they can identify the offender.
How can I be fined for littering?
In Western Australia littering infringements can be issued by authorised officers that include: police officers, local government rangers and other officers employed by government departments that oversee the protection of the environment and waterways.
KABC can issue infringements in response to litter reports submitted by community members who are registered litter reporters.