RESIDENTS who hire dodgy waste collectors to remove household rubbish could land themselves in a fine mess, facing a bill totalling hundreds of pounds.

If they don’t ensure the private business or individual collecting rubbish is legitimate, and it ends up being dumped in the neighbourhood instead of being properly disposed of, then they could face a £400 fine.

Forest of Dean District Council is aiming to double the current £200 fine it hands out for hiring waste cowboys to “maximise deterrence” in the battle with flytippers.

Councillors will be asked to approve the proposal that would see the penalty rise to a maximum £400, discounted to £200 for early payment, this month after the Cabinet backed it last week.

Household waste is generally considered to be any rubbish produced within a domestic property, including old furniture and household appliances. To check if a waste carrier is properly authorised, see environment.data.gov.uk/public-register/view/index

The new fine regime would bring it in line with the penalty for fly-tipping itself in the Forest of Dean, which will remain the same.