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News>Hidden camera trial to catch litterbugs
Kingston Council is trialing the use of hidden cameras and public signage advising the area is under surveillance to catch litterbugs in the act.
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| Hidden cameras were installed at rubbish dumping hotspots in Kingston on 22 December 2011.
The portable cameras have an innovative set up with some attached to a motion sensor, while others continuously record nearby roads and car parks. The cameras are able to operate in low light environments, and will be used to assist in identifying and prosecuting offenders. A fine of up to $224 may be issued or a summons to appear before the Magistrates Court which may result in penalties of up to $4,800.
Mayor Cr John Ronke said Council was trialing this method in a bid to combat the City’s growing litter and rubbish dumping problem.Green wedge areas are one of the worst spots for rubbish dumping.
“Illegal rubbish dumping is costing us almost $150,000 annually and Council collects about 100 tonnes of rubbish per month from streets and parks,” Cr Ronke said.
“We hope the use of hidden cameras will help us identify offenders and deter would-be litterbugs from doing the wrong thing.”
If the trial is successful, Council will consider purchasing the portable hidden cameras to be placed at rubbish dumping hotspots across Kingston. The cameras are battery and solar powered and therefore able to be set up at any location.
“Rubbish is generally dumped in remote areas away from roads and houses where no one can see it. The great thing about these hidden cameras is that they are portable and can be set up anywhere, so if people still want to take the risk by dumping rubbish we’ll catch them.”
Council is also tackling the problem of rubbish dumping on many other fronts, including hiring a new full-time Litter Prevention Officer, funded by the EPA LocalGovernment Litter Prevention Officers Program.
The officer is working with businesses, residents, and schools, and liaising with the EPA and other community groups to develop an industry best practice litter prevention strategy and education program.
All areas where hidden cameras are in place have appropriate public signage advising the area is under surveillance.
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