Insightz

The Problem With Illegal Dumping

Illegal dumping is a problem everywhere from urban to suburban to rural areas. Not only can it be environmentally harmful, but it also comes with some major legal consequences.

The reasons for illegal dumping are varied. Some people dump waste illegally because they want to avoid paying disposal fees, while others may not have access to waste disposal facilities. Some people may not be aware of the environmental and health hazards associated with illegal dumping or simply don’t realize the legal ramifications.

As waste experts and long-time industry professionals, we take illegal dumping seriously. Here’s what you should know.

What is Illegal Dumping?

Illegal dumping is the act of disposing of waste or hazardous materials in a location that is not authorized or designated for such activities. This includes dumping yard waste, appliances, tires and other bulky garbage in alleys, roadsides, private dumpsters, vacant lots and open land.

What’s So Wrong About Illegal Dumping?

Illegal dumping poses a significant threat to the environment and public health. The waste can pollute the soil, water, and air, leading to serious health risks for people and wildlife. It can also destroy natural habitats and reduce biodiversity. Even more, the toxins released by illegal dumping can contaminate groundwater, leading to poor water quality and sickness.

What Are the Illegal Dumping Penalties?

Illegal dumping comes with some major legal punishments that differ from county to county. Depending on local and state regulations, illegal dumping is a misdemeanor or even a felony punishable by jail time.

Fines start at $50 for minor offenses and can hike up to thousands of dollars in larger cases. Certain states are really doubling down on the problem by issuing stricter penalties. In response to an increase in illegal dumping, New Jersey initiated the statewide “Don’t Waste Our Open Space” campaign, which uses strategically-placed hidden cameras and works to identify offenders when needed. 

Most municipalities have illegal dumping report forms–for example, this one for illegal dumping in Los Angeles. In many instances, you can also call local authorities if you notice illegal dumping near you.

Suffice it to say, illegal dumping is not worth it.

The Difference Between Illegal Dumping and Littering 

Illegal dumping and littering are both forms of environmental pollution, but they differ in their scale and severity. For instance, Georgia’s definition of litter is trash less than 10 lbs or under 15 cubic feet in volume.

Littering entails leaving trash or debris in a public place, such as a park, sidewalk, or street. It can include anything from discarded food wrappers to cigarette butts to plastic bottles. Littering is often considered a minor offense and can result in fines or community service.

Illegal dumping, on the other hand, involves the intentional disposal of waste in a location that is not authorized or designated for such activities. It can involve large quantities of waste, such as construction debris, hazardous materials, and other types of waste that require special handling and disposal. Illegal dumping is a more serious offense and can result in fines, imprisonment, or other penalties.

How to Prevent Illegal Dumping at Your Site

There are both proactive and reactive methods to combating illegal dumping. If you oversee a construction or event site, you can prevent illegal dumping by:

• Add a lock to your dumpster
• Put up “No Dumping” and “No Trespassing” signage
• Install security cameras
• Report to the local authorities

Community members can play a vital role by reporting instances of illegal dumping to the authorities and taking part in clean-up efforts. By taking action, we can protect our planet and ensure that future generations can enjoy a healthy and sustainable environment.