Staffordshire Moorlands District Council says it is determined to crack down on environmental crime, as it refreshes its environmental enforcement policy, but it needs the public's help to tackle the issue.

The authority has powers to fine people for things like fly-posting, fly-tipping, dog fouling, littering and abandoned vehicles.

Cllr Sav Scalise, cabinet member for environment, said: "Members of the public have got a duty of care to get rid of their waste.

"I don't think there's any excuse because we've got three main tips around and there's plenty of locations where we can get rid of waste."

He said fines start at £400 but can run into thousands of pounds for more serious cases.

The council doubled the starting point for fines from £200 to £400 in April last year.

It says it uses a targeted approach to enforcement, and keeps records of where environmental crimes are occurring – this helps highlight problem areas to focus on.

Cllr Mark Deaville said: "Within my ward I saw a massive industrial-scale instance of flytipping earlier this year, and I have to say the team from Staffordshire Moorlands working in partnership with Staffordshire County Council worked very quickly and very diligently.

"Despite the massive challenges they face I think they do a fantastic job.

"With regards to flytipping, I wish we could fine them more. I wish we could fine them £1,000.

"These people who choose to blight our beautiful countryside don't deserve to live in the Staffordshire Moorlands.

"When these despicable acts do happen, our team certainly respond very well."

Cllr Scalise said the authority often relies on the public sending in images of those who fly tip, but cautioned that people shouldn't risk their personal safety by taking photographs if it might cause them to be on the receiving end of abuse.

He said: "If we can get more residents onboard, supplying us with information, that would be brilliant."

Cllr Joe Porter said volunteer litterpickers in Endon and Brown Edge acted as eyes and ears, and helped report issues – and that this partnership working helped maximise the council's resources.

Cllr Mike Worthington said he agreed with others that the starting point for fines should be increased.