Fixed Penalty Notices for fly-tipping came into force in May when the government gave local authorities greater powers to tackle the crime.

A fly-tipper who dumped garden waste at a local beauty sport has been fined £150 under new local powers.

The woman was spotted on the National Trust estate at Blickling Hall by a witness who was able to provide details and a vehicle registration number.

Fixed Penalty Notices for fly-tipping came into force in May when the government gave local authorities greater powers to tackle the crime.

Penalty notices of between £150 and £200 can now be issued and act as a quicker alternative to prosecuting fly-tippers through the courts, saving time and money.

Fly-tipping of any kind is illegal and can result in a fine of up to £50,000 and up to five years in prison.

Broadland District Council's portfolio holder for environmental excellence John Fisher said: 'Not only does fly-tipping spoil the natural environment and blight the beautiful Broadland landscape, but it also creates a possible hazard to the public.

'Any waste that is dumped is illegal and we have a zero-tolerance approach to fly-tipping. The new Fixed Penalty Notice powers allow us to tackle fly-tipping more effectively, and the money from fines helps finance keeping the district tidy.'

Broadland District Council has spent £20,000 dealing with asbestos-related fly-tipping incidents this year. Officers take a zero-tolerance approach to illegal dumping and are keen to hear from the public if a fly-tipping offence has been witnessed.

Contact: Broadland District Council's environment team on 01603 430534, environ.protection@broadland.gov.uk or www.broadland.gov.uk/flytipping