Kilkenny County Council is urging the public to remain vigilant against illegal waste collectors operating across Kilkenny City and County, as part of ongoing efforts to tackle illegal dumping and protect the environment.
Unregulated operators offering “cheap” waste collection services are contributing significantly to illegal dumping in rural areas, back roads, laneways, and urban locations. Waste handed over to unauthorised collectors is frequently dumped illegally, resulting in serious environmental damage and costly clean-ups.
Check before you hand over your waste. Householders and businesses are reminded that all waste collectors must hold a valid waste collection permit. Before engaging any collector, the public is strongly advised to verify their credentials via the National Waste Collection Permit Office (NWCPO) www.nwcpo.ie .
Only authorised collectors listed on the NWCPO register are legally permitted to collect waste.
Illegal dumping caused by unpermitted operators has serious consequences such as-
- Damage to local environments, wildlife and waterways
- Negative impacts on tourism and community wellbeing
- Financial burden on taxpayers
- Significant clean-up costs for Kilkenny County Council
Every illegally dumped site must be investigated, cleared and monitored, diverting valuable public resources away from essential services.
What are the Legal Obligations and Penalties?
Under the Waste Management Act 1996 (as amended) and the Litter Pollution Act 1997, it is an offence to-
- Collect waste without a valid permit
- Transfer waste to an unauthorised collector
- Dispose of waste in an illegal manner
Penalties include:
- On-the-spot fines of up to €500
- Court fines of up to €5,000 on summary conviction
- Fines of up to €15 million and/or imprisonment on conviction on indictment
- Liability for clean-up and remediation costs
- Potential seizure of vehicles used in waste offences
Members of the public should be aware that they remain responsible for their waste. If your waste is found dumped illegally and traced back to you, you may face enforcement action.
Kilkenny County Council is encouraging the public to report any individuals or services they suspect of operating without a valid waste collection permit.
Edel Brett, Executive Engineer in the Environment Department of Kilkenny County Council stated, “Illegal waste collectors are a key driver of dumping across Kilkenny. While their services may appear convenient, they are causing long-term damage to our environment and placing a financial burden on every taxpayer.”
Mags Whelan, Environmental Education and Awareness Officer in Kilkenny County Council added, “We are asking the public to take a moment to check that their waste collector is authorised. A simple check on the NWCPO website can prevent illegal dumping and protect our communities.”
Kilkenny County Council continues to work proactively through enforcement, monitoring, and public awareness campaigns to address illegal dumping and unauthorised waste collection.
If in doubt, check it out. Protect your community and dispose of waste responsibly.
If you observe:
- Individuals advertising low-cost or cash-only waste collection
- Waste being transported in unmarked or suspicious vehicles
- Dumping activity in rural or urban areas
Please report it to the Environment Section:
Phone: 056 779 4470
Email: environment@kilkennycoco.ie
Website: Environmental Complaints – Kilkenny County Council
All reports will be treated in confidence.
