Cornwall Council is urging residents to make sure used items of personal protective equipment (PPE) go in the bin – or you could face a £150 fixed penalty notice.

In recent months the Council has received lots of reports about PPE being discarded on streets, beaches, green spaces and walkways.

Residents are being urged to put used face coverings and disposable gloves in litter bins or take the items home.

Littering is an offence and those found dropping any item of litter can receive a £150 fixed penalty notice.

Cllr Rob Nolan, Portfolio holder for Environment and Public Protection, said: “We are seeing various items of PPE simply being left on the street.

“Remember these items may pose a risk to other members of the community who come into contact with them so be careful where you leave them.

“Please put them in the bin – it’s not difficult. Either take them home or use a public bin, just don’t leave them on the floor.

“We take great pride in keeping Cornwall clean and will not hesitate to issue notices against those caught discarding litter.”

If you see someone dropping litter please report it to Cornwall Council.

You can log a request on the Cornwall Council website or email

publicprotection@cornwall.gov.uk.