KIRKLEES Council is encouraging residents to take precautions if they plan on getting rid of their waste with a Spring-clean.

The authority is reminding people that before asking someone to take away their waste, they check that the collector has the appropriate licenses.

All waste collectors are required by law to have a waste carriers license, helping to ensure that waste is carefully disposed of at a registered site.

If a householder gives there waste to a non-registered carrier and it is later fly-tipped, they could be liable for a fine of up to £5,000.

Scrap metal collectors need a license from any local authority they operate in, and licensed vehicles should have the necessary plates attached.

The Council is also warning residents that if they decide to take scrap metal to a yard themselves, they should check it has the appropriate site license.

Most waste can be taken to a Council household waste recycling centre, a full list of which can be found at www.kirklees.gov.uk/wastesites.