“Free to take” items left outside could get you a fine or prosecution
18/07/2025
Even if done with good intentions if counts as fly-tipping
Cherwell District Council is warning householders that leaving unwanted items in the street as “free to take” counts as fly-tipping and could lead to fines or prosecution, even if done with good intentions.
Councillor Ian Middleton, Portfolio Holder for Neighbourhood Services, said: “Reusing or donating old furniture and other household items is part of the culture of sustainability that we’re seeking to build here in Cherwell.
“However, if not done properly and legally, efforts to recycle chairs, shelves, and other large items count as fly-tipping, and those responsible could be served with a fixed penalty notice or even be liable for prosecution.
“People leaving items such as furniture out as ‘free to take’ often do so with good intentions, but if they are left blocking footpaths, they are not only an eyesore but present a nuisance to more vulnerable residents, such as wheelchair users or carers with pushchairs.”
The Council is urging us, instead, to use legal options, such as the council’s bulky waste collection service, charity collections, or not-for-profit apps like Freegle and Freecycle.
These options help items find a new home without breaking the law.
For those paying someone to remove waste there’s a reminder to always check they are a licensed carrier via the Environment Agency register.
Published: by the Banbury FM News Team
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