Residents in Wrexham are being reminded of the dangers and potential legal consequences of unauthorised bonfires and fly-tipping in the run-up to Bonfire Night.
Following recent advice encouraging people to attend organised displays, residents are now being urged to think carefully about where bonfires are being held and how materials are being collected and disposed of.
Unauthorised fires can spread quickly and, in serious cases, may result in arson investigations if they are deliberately started and cause damage or put people at risk.
Lighting a bonfire on land without the landowner’s permission can have serious consequences, particularly if it causes damage to property or puts people, wildlife or nearby land at risk.
Residents are encouraged to attend displays that have been authorised and organised correctly, rather than lighting their own bonfires.
Unauthorised fires can also cause significant damage to fields, parks and other open spaces, putting nearby properties, wildlife and members of the public at risk.
There are also concerns about fly-tipping, particularly when unwanted furniture, wood and other materials are dumped in public areas or on private land to be used for bonfires.
Leaving waste in these areas without the appropriate authorisation can constitute fly-tipping, which is a criminal offence. It can also create hazards, particularly when materials contain substances that release harmful fumes when burned.
Residents are also being reminded that CCTV is in operation at known problem locations across Wrexham to help tackle illegal waste dumping and anti-social behaviour.
Footage from these cameras may be used to investigate incidents of fly-tipping, including the unauthorised dumping of materials intended for bonfires.
Anyone found illegally depositing waste could face enforcement action, and residents are urged not to leave unwanted materials on public or private land without the appropriate permission.
Councillor Hugh Jones, Lead Member for Strategic Planning and Public Protection said, “Bonfire Night should be an enjoyable occasion for everyone, but it’s important that people understand the consequences of lighting fires without permission or dumping materials to be burned.
What might seem like a harmless gathering can cause lasting damage to our communities, put people and wildlife at risk and leave others facing the responsibility of clearing up.
We’re asking residents to please be responsible, respect other people’s land and dispose of unwanted materials properly.
By making sensible choices, we can all help keep our communities safe during the bonfire period.”
North Wales Police are also running their annual Operation Bang (Op Bang) campaign, which aims to promote safe and responsible celebrations while reducing anti-social behaviour during Bonfire Night.
Further information and safety advice can be found on the North Wales Police website.
Residents are also encouraged to report fly-tipping and dispose of unwanted materials responsibly, rather than leaving them in open spaces or contributing to unauthorised bonfires.
Anyone who discovers fly-tipped waste should avoid touching or moving it, as it could contain hazardous materials.
Fly-tipping can be reported through the Wrexham Council website.
In an emergency, where there is immediate danger to life or property, residents should call 999.
