The Department of Environment Climate Change and Water has joined forces with the council to investigate and fine dumpers.

Asbestos fibres can be released into the air if not handled correctly and pose a serious health risk to construction workers and home renovators.

The department and the council are now conducting waste audits of active asbestos demolition and removal sites in the area to check that waste is being handled correctly and disposed of lawfully.

Liverpool Mayor Wendy Waller said there had been an increase in asbestos dumping in the area.

``The council has investigated many dumping incidents involving asbestos this year,'' Cr Waller said.

``Demolition companies and waste transporters dump on the side of the road without care for public safety or the environment.

``Dumpers will be caught.

``Liverpool Council rangers conduct regular patrols and investigates incidents of illegal dumping to ensure that clean-up costs are recouped and appropriate fines are issued.''

The majority of the dumping occurs in Liverpool's rural areas, Cr Waller said.

Climate Change department's waste manager Mark Gorta said many people do not realise the owner and transporter of the waste are both legally responsible for ensuring it is disposed of lawfully.

``The department warns land owners to ask their waste transporters to provide receipts as proof that the waste has gone to the right place,'' Mr Gorta said.

``Both the transporter and the owner can be given on-the-spot fines of up to $5000 or prosecuted.''

November 24-30 is Asbestos Awareness Week. Details: 99955757.