Only seven littering fines in a year in Dundee despite growing concerns

Dundee City Council issued just seven fixed penalty notices for littering during the 2025/26 financial year. Fewer than half were paid promptly, raising questions about the effectiveness of enforcement as concerns about litter continue to grow across the city.

The figures were revealed following enquiries by Broughty Ferry Councillor Craig Duncan, who sought information about littering enforcement ahead of the busy spring and summer season. The council's Acting Environmental Compliance Manager confirmed that seven littering fixed penalty notices had been issued during the financial year. He subsequently advised that three had been paid, with four outstanding at that stage, although one had only recently been issued and was still within the payment process.

 Councillor Duncan said:

 “Residents are rightly frustrated when they see litter being dropped with apparent impunity. The figures show there is currently very little chance of someone being issued with a penalty for littering, despite the environmental damage it causes and the cost of cleaning it up.”

 “People who leave bottles, cans and other rubbish at popular locations such as Broughty Ferry beach, the Castle Green and the Rock Garden should know there are consequences for their actions. Enforcement has to be visible and effective if we are serious about changing behaviour.”

 “Most people dispose of their rubbish responsibly, but a small minority are spoiling our environment for everyone else. We need to send a much stronger message that littering is unacceptable.”

The issue has also been highlighted by concerns about litter at Broughty Ferry beach during periods of high visitor numbers. 

 The council's Open Space, Design and Asset Team Leader acknowledged that litter levels can exceed routine cleansing capacity at peak times and noted that additional targeted clean-ups are arranged when required.  Officers also pointed out that litter deposited by tides contributes to the problem and that Community Payback teams and local volunteer groups assist with beach cleaning efforts. 

The Open Space, Design and Asset Team Leader further advised that the council is considering whether anti-litter messaging could form part of a wider "Take Pride in your City" responsible behaviour campaign.

 Councillor Duncan added:

“The efforts of council staff, Community Payback teams and community volunteers are greatly appreciated, but prevention is always better than cure. Education and awareness campaigns have a role to play, but there also needs to be a realistic prospect of enforcement for those who simply choose to ignore the rules.”

"Residents who take pride in their communities should not be left feeling that littering goes unchallenged."

 The figures have prompted calls from the council’s Liberal Democrat councillors for a renewed focus on litter enforcement and public awareness as Dundee enters the busiest months of the year for parks, beaches and other public spaces.