Environment Minister Rob Stokes announced that, for the first time in NSW, fines for littering from vehicles can be issued based on reports from the public. Mr Stokes said reports from the public of littering from cars, trailers and trucks could result in a fine under the new system.

"Thousands of community members already report littering from vehicles to the EPA each year resulting in warning letters, so we know there is tremendous support in the community for reporting and a low tolerance for littering," Mr Stokes said.

Mr Stokes said the new reporting system would be up and running from February 1, and fines would be issued for offences from March 1. Reports must be made using either the new portal on the EPA website or the upgraded Report to EPA mobile app downloadable at www.epa.nsw.gov.au /litter/from-vehicle.htm from February 1.

All reports will undergo a verification process before a fine is issued, and reporters may need to provide evidence in court. Motorists are advised not to use mobile phones illegally, or act dangerously to catch someone in the act. Reports need to be made within 14 days of the incident and must include a range of information.

Fines for littering from a vehicle range from $250 for an individual, $500 for a corporation, to $900 for aggravated littering such as lit cigarette butts during extreme conditions.

For more informatiom visit: epa.nsw.gov.au/ litter/index.htm