Flytipping is 'the illegal deposit of any waste onto land ie waste dumped or tipped on a site with no license to accept waste', which is an offence (under Section 33 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990). Flytipped waste generally consists of large items of rubbish that are dumped illegally instead of being disposed of properly at a landfill site, recycling centre or tip. Some people refer to this as 'dumping'.
On the other hand, small items thrown down by members of the public on public or private land (such as crisp packets discarded in the streets) are classed as litter rather than flytipping.
Waste dumped in the wrong place can be hazardous to the public, for example if it consists of toxic or sharp materials, or if it's drug related. It can damage the environment by affecting watercourses and soil quality. Flytipping also looks unsightly, gives an impression of neglect - discouraging business investment in the area.
Information about the duties of businesses is available in Your business, your rubbish and the law, our free guide for businesses.