Illegal Dumping 
Click here to report complaints about illegal dumping.

Illegal dumping is the disposal of waste in an area not approved for disposal. Illegally dumped wastes are primarily non-hazardous materials that are dumped to avoid either disposal fees or the time and effort required for proper disposal. These materials typically include:

• Construction and demolition wastes such as drywall, roofing shingles, lumber, bricks, concrete and siding
• Abandoned automobiles, auto parts and scrap tires
• Appliances or “white goods”
• Furniture
• Yard waste
• Household trash
• Medical waste

Sites used for illegal dumping vary but may include abandoned property, vacant lots (public and private), infrequently used roads, remote areas of property which aren’t easily seen.

If not addressed, illegal dumps often attract more waste, including potentially hazardous wastes such as asbestos, household chemicals, paints, automotive fluids and commercial or industrial wastes.
The health risks associated with illegal dumping are significant. Areas used for illegal dumping may be easily accessible to people, especially children, who are vulnerable to the physical (protruding nails or sharp edges) and chemical (harmful fluids or dust) hazards posed by wastes. Rodents, insects and other vermin attracted to dump sites may also pose health risks.

Dumpsites have the potential to catch fire, either by spontaneous combustion or, more commonly, by arson. Both activities can have negative impacts on the wildlife in the area, as well as adding to erosion and increasing the chance of wildfire. Additionally, runoff from dump sites containing chemicals may contaminate wells and our drinking water reservoirs.

Dump sites serve as magnets for additional dumping and other criminal activities. As a result of such illegal dumping, property values decrease, and communities become unattractive to commercial and residential developers.

ILLEGAL DUMPING CAN COST YOU!!! Fines of up to $3000 per day add up quickly, and vehicles used to transport and dump waste illegally can be confiscated!

Did you know illegal dumping can be a felony? Both criminal and civil prosecution can occur, even when only small amounts of waste are involved.
A problem this size requires everyone to help! This means taking the time to dispose of material correctly. Find out where you can take your waste, how to setup your garbage collection service and always recycle when possible. Share your knowledge with neighbors and friends.