Fly-tipping is the illegal disposal of waste on public or private land. Which often includes materials such as soil, rubble and plant cuttings. Therefore, if plant materials is present in the waste, it can quickly establish itself in the new location. This is particularly the problem when fly-tipping Japanese Knotweed as this invasive plant will create a new infestation from just a small segment of rhizome.

Not only is fly-tipping Japanese knotweed unlikely to eradicate the plant it in fact is more likely to make the spread worse and also has serious legal consequences. Japanese Knotweed is classed as controlled waste therefore the fly-tipping of Japanese Knotweed is a criminal offence. If you are caught fly-tipping Japanese Knotweed, fixed penalties can be enforced, or you may even face criminal prosecution of up to 5 years.

Furthermore, spreading Japanese knotweed could see fly-tippers held liable for any damage to caused to the property as a result of fly-tipping this invasive weed. This includes any removal costs, devaluation and damages. Which could potential result in many thousands of pounds worth of fees.