Overview
- Kew resident Burcu Yesilyurt was stopped by three enforcement officers on October 10 after tipping a small amount of coffee into a road gully near Richmond station.
- She received a £150 fixed penalty under Section 33 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990, reducible to £100 if paid within 14 days.
- Yesilyurt says she was unaware the act was an offence, describes the encounter as intimidating, and says she was told she should have used a bin.
- Richmond‑upon‑Thames Council says the fine was issued in line with policy and that reviewed body‑worn footage shows officers acted professionally.
- Yesilyurt has not paid and has filed a formal complaint, prompting discussion about proportionality and the need for clearer public guidance or signage.