What Happens If You Use an Unlicensed Waste Carrier in Scotland?

Published: 21 June 2026 By: Cheaper Than A Skip

Risks You Face

Under the Environmental Protection Act 1990, you have a Duty of Care. If an unlicensed carrier fly-tips your waste, you face: £200 Fixed Penalty, prosecution (fines up to £40,000), civil liability for cleanup costs, and a criminal record. “I didn’t know” is not a defence.

How It Gets Traced

Fly-tipped waste is traced through: documents with your name/address, CCTV at dumping hotspots, ANPR cameras, social media monitoring of unlicensed carriers, and public reports with vehicle photos.

How to Protect Yourself

Ask for a SEPA registration number
Verify it on the SEPA register online
Get a written quote with company details
Pay by card or bank transfer for a trail
Get a receipt
Be wary of very low prices

How to Check

Search the SEPA Waste Carriers register online — free and takes seconds. No registration number? Do not use them.

Use a Licensed Carrier

Cheaper Than A Skip: SEPA registered WCR/R/3011855, fully insured, 4.9/5 from 171 reviews. WhatsApp 07951 488152 or call 0141 280 6130.

What Happens If You Use an Unlicensed Waste Carrier in Scotland? - practical guide

Written by the team at Cheaper Than A Skip — SEPA Registered (Licence WCR/R/3011855), serving Glasgow and Central Scotland since 2018. Based at 31 Auchinairn Road, Bishopbriggs, G64 1RX. Rated 4.9/5 from 171 Google reviews.

What Happens If You Use an Unlicensed Waste Carrier in Scotland? - Cheaper Than A Skip