Arucas Council Proposes Hefty Fine for Illegal Dumping of Hazardous Waste
The Arucas Council has initiated a sanctioning procedure and proposed a fine of €30,050 for those responsible for the uncontrolled dumping of construction debris and hazardous waste, including asbestos-containing cement sheets, at various locations within the municipality.
The action was made possible through community collaboration, which helped identify the vehicle involved in the incidents. The illegal dumping occurred on 29 July and 4 August 2025 in the Acequia Alta area and at the El Abedul Passage (Los Castillos), with an estimated volume of around 80 bags.
### Legal Basis for Sanction
The council’s action is based on the Municipal Cleaning and Waste Collection Ordinance and Law 7/2022 concerning waste and contaminated soils for a circular economy, classifying the offence as very serious.
The council reminds citizens that the Municipal Ordinance explicitly prohibits the disposal of debris at container points. The municipality has a Clean Point located in Montaña de Cardones, where residents can safely and free of charge deposit up to 15 bags of such waste daily.
### Health Risks of Asbestos
Furthermore, a statement emphasises that improper handling of asbestos can release dangerous fibres into the air, leading to severe illnesses such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. The management of asbestos must solely be conducted by authorised handlers.
