Ireland Increases Litter Fines to €250, Launches €250,000 Clean-Up Fund September 1

Ireland will increase litter fines from €150 to €250 starting September 1, according to Minister of State for the Circular Economy Alan Dillon. This measure aims to enhance environmental cleanliness across the country.

In conjunction with the fine increase, Minister Dillon has introduced a new €250,000 fund designated for local authorities. This funding is intended to support efforts in maintaining the cleanliness of public areas, parks, beaches, and greenways. A specific focus of this initiative will be addressing dog fouling, with provisions for dog waste bins and bag dispensers.

Minister Dillon emphasized the goal of this program, stating, «We want to make it easier for responsible dog owners to do the right thing and help keep our parks, beaches and public spaces clean.» Local authorities will receive a circular detailing the application process for this funding.

This announcement coincides with the release of the 2025 National Litter Pollution Monitoring System results, which indicate a positive trend of improved litter levels throughout Ireland.