Littering and dumping in public, or in any place that is visible from a public place is an offence under the Litter Pollution Act 1997 as amended. Anyone identified as doing so will be issued with an on-the-spot litter fine of €150. If the fine is not paid within 21 days, Galway City Council will take legal action through the district court, where the maximum fine which can be imposed is €4,000.
On-the-spot fines will also be issued to anyone identified as having left items behind at any of Galway City Councils bring banks. When you have placed all your recyclable items into the relevant containers, please take any boxes/bags used to bring items to the bring banks away with you. If the banks are full, all items, including boxes/bags used to bring the items to the bring banks, must be taken away.
What Happens if I Have Received a Litter Fine?
If you have received a litter fine, you have 21 days from date of fine to pay. If no payment is received; our solicitor will be instructed to commence court proceedings. You will then receive a summons to attend court, and would be advised to consult with a solicitor if a summons is received. If payment is received within the 21 days the file will be closed.
How can I pay my Litter Fine?
The fine can be paid in several ways as follows,
- 1. Online by visiting www.fines.ie
- 2. Over the phone using a debit/credit card by calling our Customer Service Team on 091-536400
- 3. By calling to our cash office in City Hall.
Can I appeal my Litter Fine?
If you feel that your fine was unfair or mistaken, you can lodge an appeal in writing to the Staff Officer, Environment & Climate Change, Galway City Council, City Hall, College Road, Galway. Appeals should be lodged within 21 days of the date of the fine, and may be submitted by email to environment@galwaycity.ie.