Litter Fine Rises To €250 From 1 September

The fixed-payment, on-the-spot fine for littering will rise from €150 to €250 from 1 September 2026, Minister of State with responsibility for the Circular Economy Alan Dillon has confirmed.

Minister of State with responsibility for the Circular Economy Alan Dillon said:

"There must be consequences for littering. Those who drop litter impose costs on communities, local authorities and taxpayers. The increase in fines sends a clear message that littering is unacceptable and that the polluter must pay. Most people dispose of their waste responsibly. It is unfair that the actions of a small minority can spoil public spaces for everyone else."

The Minister highlighted the ongoing nationwide anti-litter awareness campaign, "Bin it or bring it home." The campaign is run by the Regional Waste Management Planning Offices and supported by the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment.

The Minister explained:

"Enforcement is important, but education and awareness are equally important. The message is simple: if there is not a bin nearby, take your litter home. The same applies to dog waste. Every one of us has a role to play in keeping Ireland clean."

Minister Dillon said the combination of stronger enforcement, targeted investment and public awareness would help drive further improvements in litter levels and support the Government's wider circular economy objectives. He noted that cleaner streets, parks and beaches improve quality of life, support tourism, protect biodiversity and strengthen community pride. He concluded:

"Through higher fines, improved infrastructure and sustained public awareness, we are taking practical steps to build cleaner, healthier and more attractive communities throughout Ireland."

The National Litter Pollution Monitoring System (NLPMS) has been operating since 1999 and provides annual data on litter pollution trends nationwide. The NLPMS generates, through local authority surveys (over 5,000 in 2025), data enabling each local authority to measure changes in the extent and composition of litter pollution in their functional areas over time. The 2025 NLPMS shows continued improvements in litter levels across Ireland.

Minister Dillon signed the commencement order for Section 36 of the Circular Economy and Miscellaneous Provisions Act 2022 in June 2026. Up to €250,000 will be made available from the Circular Economy Fund in 2026 to support local authorities in purchasing dog fouling infrastructure.