Get the Site Right compliance blitz returns in May

Published on 14 May 2024

Builders and developers are being urged to safeguard their construction materials from high wind and other strong weather events to prevent pollution of local waterways as part of the Get the Site Right campaign this May.

Get the Site Right is a month-long campaign held each year to encourage builders and developers to secure their sites and protect the environment, with the focus of this year’s campaign on pollution prevention through proper storage of construction materials.

Officers from Council and the NSW Environment Protection Authority will participate in a one-day compliance inspection blitz on Thursday 16 May

“It’s incredibly important we take steps to do all we can to protect our local environment which is why this year’s Get the Site Right campaign is focused on ensuring people are doing the right thing and securing their building materials,” Mayor Dr George Greiss said.

“The majority of builders do the right thing, but this is a timely reminder to ensure your sites are compliant, especially heading into winter,” Dr Greiss said.

Builders are being reminded that penalties for environmental crimes have recently increased with on-the-spot fines starting at $15,000 for individuals and $30,000 for companies.

As part of the recent EPA NSW reforms, fines have also increased significantly to crack down on small-scale illegal dumping.

The 2023 blitz saw a 6% increase in compliance between the May and October campaigns, and the 2024 Get the Site Right campaign is aiming for even high levels of compliance this year.

The public are encouraged to report any pollution incidents, including poor sediment control, to their Council or the EPA’s 24/7 Environment Line on 131 555.