DISCLAIMER:
This duty is currently under review and has not yet been formally signed off by the relevant professional association. The information provided is for reference only and should not be treated as final or authoritative guidance. Please verify any decisions against approved sources or seek professional advice. Updates will be published once sign-off is complete.
Simple terms explainer:
Councils must keep public spaces, streets, and highways clean and free from litter and refuse. This includes regular street sweeping, litter picking, and responding to reports of littering or fly-tipping. By maintaining clean and safe public areas, councils help protect the environment, support public health, and improve the appearance and wellbeing of local communities.
Legal status
Statutory
Duty category
Environmental services
Duty type
Public facing
Social determinant of health
Neighbourhood and environment
Emerging policy and legislation
1
Bodies with shared interest
Society of Chief Officers of Environmental Health In Scotland (SOCOEHS)
Scottish Road Works Commissioner
Scottish Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA)
Transport Scotland
NatureScot
Standards and frameworks
1