Litter and illegal rubbish dumping

Illegally dumped rubbish is a problem for our community and our environment – it costs us all. If you see illegal dumping or littering (sometimes called fly-tipping) let us know, as there are penalties for both of these in Kāpiti. 


What's the problem?

Illegally dumped rubbish:

  • can be dangerous to the public, as it may contain hazardous objects such as sharp objects or asbestos
  • costs us all, diverting money from other things that benefit our community
  • can harm our local environment, injuring or killing birds, fish, plants, and damaging soil and waterways
  • decreases enjoyment of our shared spaces.

Reporting illegal dumping

You can report rubbish and littering to us by telephone, using our online contact us or report a problem form, or through our Antenno app.


Infringement fees

Rubbish dumping is an offence under the Litter Act 1979. Council officers can issue infringement notices between $100 and $400, depending on the type and amount of litter.

Infringement notices for disposal of waste in Kāpiti Coast District in a public place, or on private land, without the occupier’s consent:

Typical offences First offence Second or subsequent offence within 1 year

Depositing litter of less than or equal to one litre by volume

Eg, takeaway food/drink containers, cigarette butts, plastic drink bottles.
$100 $400

Depositing litter from 1 to 20 litres by volume*

Eg, roadside dumping of household rubbish or accumulated car waste or putting it in public litter bins.
$200 $400
  • Depositing litter from 20* to 120** litres by volume
  • Depositing any litter in a Council park or reserve
Eg, roadside dumping of smaller volumes of household or green waste, or of any pest plant material.
$300 $400
  • Depositing litter of more than 120 litres** by volume
  • Depositing of hazardous litter
Eg, dumping commercial waste, dumping disposable nappies, car parts or glass, e-waste, animal remains or anything that has a hazardous chemical residue.
$400 $400

 *20L is the approximate capacity of a small pull-out kitchen or bathroom rubbish bin

**120L is the approximate max. capacity of two 'usual' black rubbish bags for household (60L per bag)