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When it comes to trash disposal, California residents are expected to follow a variety of rules, from sorting recyclables correctly to picking up yard waste.
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What happens when someone else uses your garbage bin?
Can a neighbor legally toss their trash into your curbside waste container without permission?
Here’s what California law says:
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Why we did this story
Our community-driven series — How to California — is here to answer your questions about state laws, history, culture, recreation and travel in the Golden State.
McClatchy’s service journalism team, focused on helping our readers navigate daily life, works in communities across the state, including San Luis Obispo, Fresno, Merced, Modesto and Sacramento.
Ask us your questions — big and small — by emailing [email protected] or filling out a form here.
Can my California neighbor put their trash in my garbage can?
According to California’s Penal Code, disposing of waste in or on someone else’s property — including using their trash container — is considered illegal dumping.
Illegal dumping includes placing garbage, green waste or other materials on public or private property without written permission, according to Shouse California Law Group.
How do I report my Sacramento neighbor for illegal dumping?
The California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery said trash law enforcement is primarily handled by local governments.
To report illegal dumping in Sacramento County, residents can call 3-1-1 Connect.
Who do I call in Modesto?
Modesto residents can report illegal dumping by calling the city at 209-577-5494 or submitting an online report through the Go Modesto App.
How do I report dumping in Fresno? Merced?
Fresno residents can report illegal dumping by visiting the FresGo website or app, and by calling 3-1-1 or 559-621-8400.
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In Merced County, residents can report illegal dumping by filing a report on the county’s issue reporting platform, SeeClickFix.
What to do about dumped trash in SLO County
To report illegal dumping in San Luis Obispo, residents can use the Ask SLO app or call the police non-emergency line at 805-781-7312.
In San Luis Obispo County, examples of illegally dumped trash or debris include “dumped furniture, construction waste or green waste,” according to county Environmental Health Services. You can report dumped trash or debris that involves non-hazardous materials to the San Luis Obispo County Sherriff’s Office by calling 805-781-4550 or file a report online.
What are penalties for illegal dumping in California?
It is against the law to dump garbage, waste or other materials on public or private property without permission.
Violating this law can be considered an infraction, according to Shouse California Law Group.
“The amount of the fine will depend on the number of times you dump illegally,” the law firm said.
According to Shouse California Law Group, individuals caught illegal dumping can face the following fines:
- First offense: $250 to $1,000
- Second offense: $500 to $1,500
- Third offense: $750 to $3,000 or more
Have a question about life in California?
How to California— a guide to help you live, work and enjoy life in the Golden State, is here to help.
We’ll answer your questions — big and small — about state laws, history, culture, recreation and travel.
Ask your questions in the form below (can’t see it? Click here) or email [email protected].
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