Litter

From 1 February 2010, you can be fined for dropping litter, including chewing gum and cigarette butts.

Why are you fining people for littering in the borough and drinking alcohol in an alcohol free zone (AFZ)?
The fines, known as fixed penalty notices (FPNs), will help act as a deterrent against environmental crimes, reduce alcohol related anti-social behaviour and encourage people to have pride in Hertsmere.  It is also something that residents have said they would support, to help improve the environment.

Who will issue the fines?
Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) and authorised council staff such as environmental health officers.  They will not be on commission to give out fines or have a set target but will issue them while out and about doing their jobs.

How much is the fine?
The fine for littering in the borough and drinking alcohol in an AFZ is £75, to be paid within 14 calendar days of the date of the FPN.  A discount of £25 will be applied if the fine is paid within 10 calendar days.  These are the default charges set under the Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act 2005.

How do you pay a fine?
You can pay by debit card, cheque or cash:
Pay by debit card online or via an automated telephone service on 020 8207 7575.
Pay by cheque by post or at the Civic Offices in Borehamwood.
Pay by cash at the Civic Offices.
Please note you cannot pay the fine at the time of issue.

Can I appeal a fixed penalty notice for littering or drinking alcohol in an AFZ?
No.  If you don’t think you should have been issued with a fine, you can choose not to pay it but this means you will be prosecuted, you may have to go to court and you could face a fine of up to £2,500.

What if I have difficulty paying the fine?
If you have difficulty paying the fine you should contact the council on 020 8207 7435 to discuss the issue.

What will happen to the money you get from the fines?
All income from fines will be put back into combating environmental crimes.

Will you be fining young people?
The fines only apply to those aged 16 or over.  Anyone younger caught dropping litter will be given a warning notice and a letter will be sent to their parents or legal guardian.  If they are obstructive, evasive or aggressive towards the officer, legal action may be taken. Under 16s caught drinking in an AFZ will be dealt with differently, depending on the circumstances.

What am I meant to do with my cigarette butts/chewing gum/litter if there isn’t a bin around or any way to dispose of it?
There are litter bins located across the borough in the main towns and streets as well as recycling facilities for items such as plastic bottles and cans but if you are unable to dispose of your rubbish while out and about please take it home with you.

What is an alcohol free zone (AFZ) and where are they?
AFZs are designated areas set up in the borough to help combat alcohol related crime and anti-social behaviour.  There are two AFZs in Borehamwood and one in Potters Bar.  These areas have always been enforced by the police.

Will you fine people for not clearing up after their dogs and for other environmental crimes?
The council is looking to introduce fines for other environmental crimes – including dog fouling – in the future.

How can I find out more?
Contact Hertsmere Borough Council on 020 8207 7435, email street.scene@hertsmere.gov.uk