The problem of illegal dumping is one that occurs in most areas of the city and is also one of the main challenges that the ERCID has to contend with.
- People are prepared to change, but only if they are constantly monitored and warned regarding the consequences of dumping.
- Some incidents stem from persons coming to the various scrap dealers and trying to dump waste not accepted by them. This comes from street persons / horse and cart operators and unscrupulous waste handlers.
- ERCID engages with these persons and encourages them to make use of the City’s drop off facilities, of which Parow Drop off Facility is situated close by and disposal is free of charge. We also indicate that if caught and reported to Law Enforcement they can face fines up to R20 000.
The paragraphs BELOW are extracts from the website of the City of Cape Town, where it is pointed out that dumping is highly illegal.
What exactly does illegal dumping entail?
“Illegal dumping is the depositing, discharging, spilling or releasing of any kind of waste in or on any public space. This includes waste that is loose or in boxes, barrels or bags
“Public places include:
- open fields;
- vacant or occupied land;
- roadsides;
- sewer systems; and
- waterways.
“Although the City has a number of waste management strategies and services in place for dealing with all types of waste, we have a dumping problem in Cape Town. It is one of the biggest challenges the Solid Waste Management Department faces. It is expensive, damages our environment and is harmful to ourselves and our animals.”
PLEASE NOTE
“Dumping on any public land is illegal and an offence: We work closely with SAPS in illegal dumping investigations. If you are found guilty of dumping illegally you could be fined between R500 and R10 000 and could get a prison sentence of 6 months to 2 years.
To report illegal dumping in your community, call 0860 103 089.
If you have the culprit’s vehicle registration number and/or can identify him/her, call 021 400 6157 or email solidwaste.bylaw@capetown.gov.za. “
On the website, the City of Cape Town goes on to appeal to residents and businesses to assist in curbing and dealing with the problem:
Help us control dumping
Look out for our Big Green Bins
Green waste bins have been placed near toilets in informal settlements and public toilets so that residents can dispose of waste properly. In 2014/2015 and 2015/2016, the City rolled out 929 bins in 24 informal settlements at a cost of approximately R753 000. Eventually these bins will be placed in all informal settlements where we are legally able to place them.
Do your part
- Buy additional waste bins if you need them.
- Make others aware of the importance of keeping our environment clean and litter free.
- Fence off your property to prevent others from dumping on it.
Report illegal dumping
To report illegal dumping in your community, call 0860 103 089. If you have the culprit’s vehicle registration number and/or can identify him/her, call 021 400 6157 or email: solidwaste.bylaw@capetown.gov.za.
In order to be sure that you are fully informed on the contents of the City’s Waste Management By-law, visit the website www.capetown.gov.za
City of Cape Town: Integrated Waste Management By-law, 2009
Published in Province of Western Cape: Provincial Gazette no. 6651 on 21 August 2009
- Amended by City of Cape Town: Integrated Waste Management Amendment By-law, 2010 on 4 June 2010
- Amended by City of Cape Town: Integrated Waste Management Amendment By-law, 2016 on 30 June 2016
