ILLEGAL dumpers have been warned they will face fines for throwing rubbish on Lake Macquarie roadsides, across the city's parks and any other public area.
The council's Environmental Regulation and Compliance manager Derek Poulton said illegal dumping is a 'disgraceful act' that will not be tolerated.
"Last financial year there were 1000 reported incidents across the city, with more than 2000 tonnes of waste illegally dumped across numerous sites," he said.
"That's roughly 3000 wheelie bins worth of waste, which needs to be cleaned up by council at a cost to ratepayers."
Asbestos, construction waste and tyres are among the most dumped items in Lake Macquarie.
Mr Poulton said illegal dumping costs the community more than just dollars, creating serious environmental and health risks, especially with hazardous waste like asbestos.
"Disposing of asbestos and other waste items responsibly, no matter how small the amount, is the right thing to do," he said.
"Illegal dumpers are warned that this is not something we take lightly, and you will be fined.
"Individuals face on-the-spot fines of up to $15,000, while corporations could be fined up to $30,000."
The council provides a number of avenues for the public to dispose of waste responsibly.
Members of the community can use the bookable bulky waste service, Chemical CleanOut days, Community Recycling Stations at council facilities and the Community Recycling Centre at the Awaba Waste Management Facility.
There is a comprehensive guide for how to dispose of waste correctly on the council's website.
Residents are urged to report illegal dumping to the NSW Environment Protection Agency hotline on 131 555.
