More than 1,500 tyres stored illegally in a suburban back yard

Daniel James Looney, 46, stored the tyres in August and September 2020. He was charged under Section 52 and 99Q(2) of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 for storing the tyres without holding an appropriate works approval or licence, and his case was heard in the Midland Magistrates Court on Monday 8 November 2021. 
 
The tyres have been removed by the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation and Mr Looney has moved from the house. 
 
Department of Water and Environmental Regulation Executive Director of Compliance and Enforcement Shaun Hodges said the large number of tyres being illegally stored created a potentially dangerous environmental risk. 
 
“Used tyres in quantities like this are a major fire hazard, provide a breeding ground for mosquitos, and are unsightly,” he said. 
 
“The cost to remove them was quite prohibitive, and in this case that cost – more than double the fine –is now the responsibility of the offender.” 
 
Illegal storage of tyres can be reported to DWER’s 24-hour Pollution Watch Hotline on 1300 784 782, email pollutionwatch@dwer.wa.gov.au or call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.