Decision details

Option

Proposal

Pros

Cons

1*

Increase FPN’s fines to maximum

level

Sends a strong message and discourages potential offenders.

Increased income from FPN’s is re-invested into environmental enforcement service and clear-up of waste.

Cases can be resolved quickly without the expense of going to court.

The higher FPN amount is in-line with what other councils across the country are setting their FPN levels at i.e. maximum level.

Higher level of FPN will deter flyposting and should lead to lower numbers of fly posting reports and reduce expense of removing flyposting

Offenders may not be prepared to pay the fine, or they will be unable to afford the fine.

This may increase the number of cases being referred to Court for prosecution and an increase in legal time. 

2*

Keep FPN fines at current level

More FPN’s would be paid at a lower amount, because its more affordable.

The levels of inflation have eroded the financial impact of the FPN’s, which were set in 2003. 

Not in line with council intent of zero tolerance for environmental crime.

Not considered as an effective deterrent in the current climate.

Will encourage fly posting in Wiltshire if our level of FPN is below that of other authorities.

3*

Increase FPN fines, but not to maximum level.

More FPN’s would be paid at a lower amount, because it may more affordable.

Applying a penalty rate at a lower threshold than other authorities could be perceived by those engaging in waste crime that Wiltshire presents a lower financial risk for undertaking illicit activities.