Littering in Public Places FAQs

What is considered as littering?
If you throw any rubbish on the ground, it is littering. This includes littering from a high rise building and from a vehicle.

Are biodegradable things like apple cores and banana skins considered to be litter?
Yes.

Is it illegal to litter at places where there are cleaners to clean up the area?
Yes.

Is it illegal to litter in a private property such as the compounds of a private condominium?
Yes.
If you litter at private places such as a condominium, you may still be subjected to internal rules and regulations.

Is it illegal if I left my serviette on the table and the wind blew it on the floor?
Yes, it is illegal if you allow your serviette to be blown on to the floor and you did not pick it up.

Is it illegal if the litter bin is full and I put trash around it?
Yes, it is illegal if you dispose of your litter at any place other than in the refuse bin or receptacle.

Who is responsible for catching litterbugs?
Any authorized officer has the power to “catch” you for littering. This may include:

• An officer from the National Environment Agency;
• An auxiliary police officer appointed by the Singapore Police Force;
• An officer appointed by the National Parks;
• A member of the Town Council.

What should I do after being caught for littering?
You will be issued a “Notice to Attend Court” on a stipulated date.

However, you may choose to pay the fine (as stated in the Notice) before the stipulated date. If you do so, you will not need to go to Court.

If you do not pay the fine or attend Court on that date, you may be arrested.

What is the punishment for littering?
A fine will be imposed on offenders:

• First time offenders will pay a fine not exceeding $1,000;
• Second time will pay a fine not exceeding $2,000;
• Third time and subsequent offenders will pay a fine not exceeding $5,000.

If you are above 16 years old, you may be sentenced to Corrective Work Order.

What is Corrective Work Order?
You will be required to perform unpaid work in relation to the cleaning of any premises. Your supervising officer will inform you of the work to be done 14 days before it commences.

If I have been caught for littering, but I think that there has been a mistake, what can I do?
You may appeal to the National Environment Agency by completing and submitting the Appeal Form. This form may be found on their website.