The seasons are changing and winter clothing is going into storage or in many cases, going to charity shops to make space for the summer collection.
Sending clothing and other household items to charities when they are still in good condition is a good idea, but charity collection bins are not dumping grounds, warns EPA Victoria.
"As we're coming into spring and summer, many people will be considering a clear out of their closets and looking to update their furniture," said EPA CEO Lee Miezis.
"Our charity shops appreciate the donations, but they aren't the place to take broken or tatty items. Too often we get complaints that instead of a saleable item, a broken piece of furniture has been dumped at a collection site.
"That can be classed as littering and EPA or councils can take action against people who are clearly not really donating but dumping. In June a man faced court and was fined and ordered to pay costs of nearly $4,000 when he and a friend dumped a broken pool table at an Ascot Vale St Vincent de Pauls. https://www.epa.vic.gov.au/about-epa/news-media-and-updates/media-releases-and-news/fine-for-charity-shop-dumper
"Don't just make your problem their problem. Dispose of things correctly or the potential fine could far outweigh the disposal cost you were trying to avoid.
"It's best to leave items during normal business hours; that way staff can advise you whether your items are appropriate, and you don't risk your once valuables being damaged by weather waiting for collection overnight.
"Donating is good, dumping is bad; bad enough to get you in trouble."
