Litter is usually single items of waste that are not put in a proper waste receptacle but instead are dropped on land in an open public space. Littering includes items such as food waste, cigarette butts and chewing gum.
Dropping litter is a criminal offence and subject to a maximum fine of £2,500. Both the Council and the Police have the authority to prosecute litterers and can issue a Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN) of £80 for this.
Where litter can be clearly traced back to certain types of business, such as take-away food premises, we can issue a Street Litter Control Notice. This makes the owner responsible for keeping the front of their premises clear of litter.
Legislation alone will not achieve a clean East Ayrshire. All residents have a responsibility to keep our local environment clean and tidy.
All schools, community groups or local environment projects can receive help from us with keeping their area clean and litter free.
Report an issue with litter
Report an issue to Greener Communities
Litter bins
Our StreetScene service is responsible for emptying litter bins, including those provided for dog foul.
If you have any concerns about a litter bin in your area, please contact us.
Fixed Penalty Notices (FPN)
Authorised officers of East Ayrshire Council have the power to issue a Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN) charge as an alternative to prosecution for environmental offences such as littering.
Find out more about Fixed Penalty Notices for environmental crimes.