Arrecife Ayuntamiento cracks down on 120 fly tipping cases

Arrecife’s Department of Cleaning has launched a major offensive against the illegal dumping of waste on public roads, with 120 new cases identified for sanctions since the start of July.

The department, led by Councillor Jacobo Lemes, is utilising surveillance cameras and neighbourhood reports to tackle the issue head-on. Each of the 120 incidents has been proposed for penalty under strict municipal regulations.

This new push builds upon an existing campaign against fly-tipping. In the first four months of this year alone, the council initiated 122 separate disciplinary proceedings, underscoring the persistent nature of the problem and the authority’s commitment to intensified controls.

Of the recent 120 interventions, 78 were identified through cameras installed in known problem areas. The remaining 42 were a direct result of citizen collaboration, with residents alerting the authorities to waste being left in unauthorised places. This partnership between technology and community involvement has led to faster and more effective responses.

The Municipal Ordinance on Cleaning and Waste Management allows for severe penalties. Fines can reach up to €4,000 for the most serious offences, with the amount determined by the volume and nature of the waste, as well as the environmental impact it creates.

Councillor Jacobo Lemes stressed that the issue is not a lack of services, but a failure of public responsibility. “Information campaigns have been carried out, the free collection service is available to residents by phone or WhatsApp, and yet these abuses persist. It is not ignorance, it is contempt for the environment and for others,” he said.

Lemes also took the opportunity to thank the citizens who have assisted by reporting incidents. “I want to thank those who send us notifications or call the collection service to prevent this waste from ending up on the streets. Thanks to their participation, we are recovering public spaces, cleaning up faster, and identifying those who act irresponsibly,” he stated. Arrecife Ayuntamiento reminds residents that a free municipal collection service for household items is readily available. Arrangements can be made by calling 928 815 560 or via WhatsApp on 629 793 705. This service allows for the removal of furniture, mattresses, and electrical appliances at no cost.