If you find a dump, you should report the location to an enforcement agency as soon as possible. If you know that the property is publicly owned or you know the property owner and have permission to enter, you may assess the trash. Do not disturb or remove any of the trash. Also, be aware that picking through trash poses some health and safety risks. If you are uncertain as to who owns the property, simply report the location.

It's always better if an enforcement agent finds the evidence undisturbed. This prevents any question of whether there was tampering of evidence. The agent is able to testify that the evidence was part of the dump, and you will probably not be called on to testify.

Your timely report, along with clear evidence, could help identify the person(s) responsible for the dump. The longer you wait, the chances for successful prosecution decrease, and the size of the dump will grow.

Report older dumps, too. You may be the first to report it. Some municipalities are in the process of identifying illegal dumps, and your information could add to their data. If the agency is aware of it, your call may increase surveillance of the site. If you want to do more than report the problem, let the agency know that you would like to be involved in a cleanup if one is to be organized. They may know of such an effort or of a group that may be interested.

Other Enforcement Topics:

The Problem

The Harm

What to do if You Witness Someone Littering or Dumping Trash

The Laws

Contacting an Agency

Beyond Enforcement...Other Ways to Help