Tyres, fridges, treated wood, plastics, paint canisters and building materials are among the contents regularly being set on fire across the district.
As well as causing toxic fumes for residents and polluting the environment, the illegal blazes can get out of control or create the risk of an explosion because of the build-up of gasses.
Anyone who sees a fire which is out of control or a risk to people or animals should contact 999.
Anyone who spots what they believe to be an illegal fire, or a dark plume of smoke, is also asked to contact us on 01353 665555 as soon as possible so officers can investigate.
The majority are caused by traders or builders unwilling to pay for a certified waste carrier to take rubbish to an official recycling centre, opting instead for what they believe to be the cheaper and quicker option of burning waste on-site.
It is an offence under the Environmental Protection Act 1990 to keep, treat or dispose of waste in a way that causes pollution of the environment or harm to human health, except in accordance with an environmental permit. Anyone found guilty of this offence could face fines of up to £50,000 or, in serious circumstances, could be sent to prison for up to 12 months. This Act also imposes a “duty of care” on businesses in respect to their waste. Anyone who disposes of waste by burning it is likely not to comply with their duty of care.
Under the Clean Air Act 1993 it is also illegal to emit dark smoke from any trade or industrial premises. Dark smoke is produced by a range of materials such as rubber, plastics and often general mixed waste. Fines can be up to £20,000.
See our business waste page for more information.