Covert cameras will be used to catch people who illegally dump rubbish at recycling sites in Torfaen.
Torfaen County Borough Council has started using the cameras at its recycling bank sites.
The measure, along with new signs about how to use the sites properly, has been introduced in a bid to combat fly-tipping.
Anyone caught fly-tipping could face a fine running into thousands of pounds or even a prison sentence.
Cameras will also be used to catch vandals who have also been targeting the recycling facilities.
Earlier this year cardboard recycling banks were removed from Cwmbran Stadium and Fairwater because levels of abuse spiralled.
A Council spokesman said: "Recycling bank sites are being targeted by fly-tippers who are not using the sites appropriately.
"After listening to residents concerns about abuse and incidents of vandalism we decided to introduce hidden cameras to catch culprits in the act. We hope that this will help deter misuse of the sites and keep the areas clean for other users of the sites."
Hidden cameras are also used at other fly-tipping hot spots in the County Borough.
"We are prepared to use these cameras wherever problems persist," said the spokesman.
"Thankfully, it is only a minority of people who dump rubbish and we want to remind them that even if banks are full or not available they must not leave their rubbish on the ground.
"The Council would like to thank the vast majority of residents for disposing of waste appropriately."
The maximum fine for domestic fly tipping is £5,000. Anyone caught fly tipping commercial waste could be fined up to £50,000 or face a maximum five year prison sentence.
Recycling banks are located at various locations in Torfaen including Cwmbran Stadium, Abersychan Car Park and Prince Street car park in Blaenavon.
Materials that can be recycled at the sites vary but they include glass, plastic bottles, newspapers, tins and cans and Tetra Pak drinks cartons.
The local authority is currently the best recycling authority in South Wales- recycling 42 per cent of its waste.
"This demonstrates what a great job the majority of residents do," said the spokesman.
For more information about recycling visit www.torfaen.gov.uk/waste|