A joint investigation between Whittlesea council and the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has found numerous builders in breach of environmental regulations.
Officers inspected more than 40 building sites in Whittlesea as part of the investigation.
Just one site inspected was deemed to be fully compliant with all regulations.
The owners of the other sites will shortly be issued with notices to comply, as well as numerous infringement notices for violation of the Environmental Protection Act (2017) and Whittlesea council’s building Ssite code of practice.
Common issues included temporary fences causing hazards to pedestrians, sediment flowing into stormwater, overfilled bins and uncontained litter on site.
Whittlesea council chief executive Craig Lloyd welcomed the partnership approach with the EPA, saying council takes environmental responsibility seriously.
“The outcome of this operation highlights the need for ongoing oversight to safeguard the natural environment and ensure builders are upholding their responsibility to keep sites clean and compliant,” he said.
“While we found builders in breach of environmental protection laws during these inspections, we acknowledge there are many other builders out there who are doing the right thing.
“We will be addressing the issues found through this joint operation by educating builders and issuing fines where necessary.
EPA north regional manager Jeremy Settle said the partnership with Whittlesea council should send a very clear message to builders and construction sites in the area.
“We are vigilant, and we are enforcing compliance,” he said.
“Don’t wait for us to tell you what to do. Everyone has a duty to act to protect the environment. It’s part of your business to find out your obligations under the law.”
