Environmental Crime Penalty Notices
What is a Fixed Penalty Notice?
A Fixed Penalty Notice is a penalty issued by an authorised officer in respect of environmental or public health crimes. These notices provide a quick, visible and effective way of dealing with low-level crimes. A Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN) is not a fine. Payment of the penalty by the recipient simply discharges their liability for conviction for the offence witnessed.
How to Pay a Fixed Penalty Notice
Payments can be made via the following link:
When you pay, please quote:
- The fixed penalty reference number (at the top of the Fixed Penalty Notice)
- Your name and address
You cannot make payment to the officer issuing you with a Fixed Penalty Notice.
If you have been issued with a littering from vehicle civil penalty notice please visit the following page:
What Happens when a FPN is Paid?
Payment of a FPN means that no further action will be taken for that particular offence. It does not constitute an admission of guilt, but does mean you avoid being prosecuted for the offence, a potentially larger penalty and a criminal record.
Can I Appeal a Fixed Penalty Notice?
No. if you don’t think you should have been issued with a penalty, you can choose not to pay but this means your case will be taken to a Magistrate’s court and you could face a higher fine. The fact that you may not agree with being prosecuted for a low-level environmental or public health offence is not a reason that will be accepted by the Courts. They will judge your case against the law of the land and the evidence presented.
What Happens if I Refuse to Pay the Penalty?
A file will be prepared for prosecution and a summons issued for you to attend the Magistrate’s Court.
Can I Pay in Instalments?
We cannot accept payments in instalments. In cases of demonstrable hardship (supported in writing), consideration may be given by a senior officer to extending the payment period and delaying the issue of summons, although there is no legal basis for this.
Frequently Asked Questions
Further information can be found via the following link:
FAQ's
Contact us
Email: envcrime@dover.gov.uk