The operator behind a massive illegal dump at an Altona warehouse has attempted to burn about 6000 cubic metres of recyclable plastic, in an apparent bid to escape enforcement action by the local council and the Environment Protection Authority.

The warehouse tenant, MJM Fabrication, allegedly began incinerating the waste last week, without permits from Hobsons Bay Council or the EPA.

Council inspectors ordered workers to stop the illegal burn and dismantle an industrial incinerator found inside the Aylesbury Drive property.

Photographs obtained by The Age reveal a large hole was cut in the roof of the leased warehouse to allow potentially toxic smoke to escape. Several mattresses were put in a small office to accommodate staff involved in the illegal disposal.