WATCH: Illegal dumping still a problem for City of Johannesburg
Apart from the fine and jail time, the person can also be forced to pay for the rehabilitation of the piece of land they dumped on.
Illegal dumping has been a problem for the City of Johannesburg (CoJ) in the last few years and causing the City as well as the community in which the dumping occurs a headache.
On March 23, councillor Tyrell Meyers was informed of illegal dumping happening in Ward 23.
When Meyers arrived at the address where the dumping was taking place, he caught the suspects in the act.
The suspects were made to reload the rubble back onto the vehicle and were escorted to the Robertsham Pikitup Garden site to offload the rubble there.
Illegal dumping has constantly plagued the South of Joburg as people have not been deterred by the fines issued by the CoJ and the JMPD.
Illegal dumping doesn’t just effect the environment but also the health of those living close to the illegal dumping sites.
The City’s by-laws against illegal dumping and littering say no person may:
• Cause litter
• Sweep waste into the gutter, road or property
• Dump waste
• Disturb anything that has been placed to collect litter in such a matter for its content to spill from it
• Allow any person to do any of the acts referred to above
Despite the best efforts from the City to try to get rid of illegal dumping sites, they always resurface.
The City urges the residents to adhere to its by-law when it comes to waste as this will help keep the City clean.
The problem usually comes from little violations that lead to bigger problems later.
Littering is seen as one such conduct people do without realising the long-term effects it has.
Littering is seen as the forbearer for illegal dumping.
If caught for illegal dumping, an R5 000 fine will be issued to the person by the City.
If the person fails to pay the fine, they can be prosecuted and sent to jail for not more than six months.
Apart from the fine and jail time, the person can also be forced to pay for the rehabilitation of the piece of land they dumped on.
If you see someone illegally dumping, you can report them to Pikitup on 011 688 1500.
