Residents whose waste is fly-tipped in Sandwell face a £400 on the spot fine under new powers given to councils this week by the government.

And householders could be hit with the penalty even if they didn’t dump the rubbish themselves.

It is hoped the prospect of the fine will encourage people to use certified waste carriers instead of cowboy operators who fly-tip waste rather than pay to take it to a council refuse centre.

Sandwell Council’s cabinet member for public health and protection councillor Elaine Costigan said: “We’re already tackling fly-tipping in Sandwell as a high priority and we’ve issued more than a hundred £400 fines to people who have dumped rubbish over the past 18 months.

“Householders can currently be prosecuted and given an unlimited fine if they give their waste to someone who then illegally dumps it.

“This week’s change in legislation gives the council the option to issue an on-the-spot fine for the offence, rather than having to take it to court.

“Our advice is to only use someone with a trade waste licence if you’re having rubbish collected or work done that involves taking away rubbish – and make sure you always get a receipt.”