Fixed penalty notices

What does a Fixed Penalty Notice mean?

Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs) are issued by Enforcement Officers for environmental crimes under various pieces of legislation. Officers are employed either directly by MK Council or by our contractor, WISE. The FPN is issued as an alternative to a prosecution in court. FPNs can be issued to anyone over 18 years old and penalties will vary according to the offence.

Examples of offences where a Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN) may be issued include:

  • Fly tipping
  • Dropping litter
  • Failing to clear up after your dog has fouled
  • Fly posting
  • Abandoning vehicles 

Our Enforcement Officers do NOT take payments. The FPNs they issue will tell you how much you have to pay, the payment due date, and if an early payment discount applies. 

Officers from WISE will wear a uniform with both the Council and WISE logos, they also wear body cameras and identification badges.

FPNs issued by Milton Keynes Council

They will have a four digit reference number. Please check your notice and the accompanying slip will explain how to pay.

FPNs issued by WISE 

There are several ways to pay. All details will be on the FPN. 

FPN's issued by WISE will only relate to littering or dog fouling offences. WISE have created the following document for frequently asked questions.

There is no statutory appeal process for those issued with a Fixed Penalty Notice. People issued with a FPN who don’t feel that they have committed an offence can have their case heard at Magistrates Court. Those wishing to make representations, can find useful information in the FAQs above.

If you don't pay a Fixed Penalty Notice

If you refuse to pay the FPN, or choose to have the case heard at the Magistrates' Court (as is your right), you could receive a fine greater than the fixed penalty if convicted.

Being issued a Fixed Penalty Notice does not mean that you have received a criminal conviction. If you have received an FPN, check the ways you need to pay. Failure to pay a penalty may result in a higher fine imposed by the court.