Minister Dillon announces increased Litter Fines and €250,000 fund for Cleaner Communities

• Results of National Survey show continued progress on litter
• Findings show collective efforts are making a difference, but also underline need for continued action
• New fund will support local authorities to keep public areas, parks, beaches and greenways clean, with a focus on challenges like dog fouling

The Minister of State with responsibility for the Circular Economy Alan Dillon today announced a package of measures to support cleaner communities, including a new €250,000 fund for local authorities and an increase in litter fines from €150 to €250 from 1 September 2026.

The announcement coincides with the publication of the 2025 National Litter Pollution

Monitoring System (NLPMS) results, which show continued improvements in litter levels across Ireland.

The new fund, financed through the Circular Economy Fund, will support local authorities in purchasing additional dog waste bins, bag dispensers and related infrastructure in parks, beaches, greenways and other locations regularly used by dog owners. A circular will issue to Local Authorities in due course with the details on how to apply for this funding.

The Minister said:

“People are rightly proud of their local communities, but one issue I consistently hear about is litter, including dog fouling. This new €250,000 fund will help local authorities provide additional dog waste bins and related infrastructure where it is needed most. We want to make it easier for responsible dog owners to do the right thing and help keep our parks, beaches and public spaces clean.”

Minister Dillon also confirmed that he has signed the commencement order providing for a substantial increase in litter fines. From 1 September 2026, the fixed-payment on-the-spot fine for littering will rise from €150 to €250. The Minister added:

“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.”

‘Bin it or bring it home’

Minister Dillon also welcomed the launch of a new nationwide anti-litter awareness campaign – ‘Bin it or bring it home’ – by the Regional Waste Management Planning Offices, supported by the Department. 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.”

National Litter Survey shows continued improvement

The National Litter Pollution Monitoring System, which has monitored litter levels nationwide since 1999, shows further progress in 2025. The survey found:

• More than one in five surveyed locations (20.6%) were classified as unpolluted, up from 19.2% in 2024.
• Moderately polluted areas fell significantly from 17.4% to 13.3%.
• Significantly polluted areas also declined, falling from 3.0% to 2.6%.

The results also underline the need for continued action. Passing pedestrians remain the single largest source of litter pollution, accounting for 39% of litter nationally, while passing motorists account for almost one-fifth of litter pollution. The Minister said:

“The results show that our collective efforts are making a difference, but they also remind us that litter remains largely a behavioural issue. The overwhelming majority of litter comes from everyday actions that are entirely avoidable. Cleaner communities don't happen by accident. They happen because people take responsibility for their actions and because local authorities, communities and Government work together.”

Supporting cleaner communities

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.”