Local councils are receiving complaints about piles of leaves, hedge cuttings, and garden debris being mistaken for fly-tipping.

Some residents have been issued fixed penalty notices of up to £400.

A spokesperson for Wheeldon Brothers, a waste management firm, explained: “Many people do not realise that if garden waste is left in a public place or on land where it does not belong, it can be classed as fly-tipping.

“Even if you have simply raked leaves to the edge of your driveway and plan to clear them later, there is a risk they could blow onto the pavement or road and attract a complaint.”

The Environmental Protection Act 1990 allows councils to take action if waste is left in a way that causes a nuisance or poses a risk to public safety.

This includes garden waste, which should be disposed of properly via council collections, composting, or at a recycling centre.

The Wheeldon Brothers spokesman added: “If leaves or branches are blocking drains or pathways, the council may see it as an obstruction or a hazard.

“The safest approach is to collect and dispose of garden waste promptly rather than leaving it piled up where it could be misinterpreted as fly-tipping.”

The potential for complaints is heightened by autumn storms and high winds, which can scatter leaves across pavements and roads.

“A quick tidy-up can save you from an unnecessary fine,” Wheeldon Brothers advised.

“If you are unsure about your local rules, check with your council before leaving garden waste outside your property.”

£80 wheelie bin fine warning

UK households have also been warned they face £80 fines this summer due to a common bin mistake.

Millions of us could unknowingly fall foul of local council rules if we leave our wheelie bins out for too long, with some councils issuing fines of up to £80 for bins left on pavements after collection day.

Under Section 46A of the Environmental Protection Act 1990, councils have the power to fine residents who “fail to follow reasonable waste collection rules”, which includes leaving bins out for extended periods or blocking public walkways.

Top tips to avoid bin fines

  • Ask a neighbour or family member to take your bin in after collection
  • Check collection schedules before you leave, especially around bank holidays
  • Make sure bins are not blocking paths, driveways or roads
  • Secure your lid properly to avoid spillage or attracting pests
  • Report any bin damage on return for replacement