Last reviewed: June 1, 2026 · Written by James Carter, Consumer Rights Researcher · Independent resource — not a government site
Report illegal dumping by calling 311 for your local code enforcement. For hazardous waste contact the EPA at epa.gov or 1-800-424-4372. Take photos and note the exact location before calling — do not touch the waste.
Quick answer: Report illegal dumping to your local code enforcement or public works department by calling 311. For hazardous waste dumping, contact the EPA at epa.gov/enforcement/report-environmental-violation or call 1-800-424-4372. Take photos and note the exact location before calling — do not touch the waste.
Illegal dumping — also called fly-tipping — costs U.S. local governments over $1.1 billion per year to clean up. It contaminates soil and groundwater, attracts pests, and creates safety hazards. Most illegal dumping can be reported anonymously through local channels, and many cities have apps that make reporting take under 2 minutes.
Types of Illegal Dumping You Can Report
Illegal dumping includes: household trash left on vacant lots or roadsides, construction debris dumped without a permit, old appliances or furniture abandoned on public property, chemical or hazardous waste dumped in waterways or fields, used motor oil poured down storm drains, and commercial waste dumped to avoid disposal fees. All of these are reportable and most are criminal offences.
Where to Report Illegal Dumping
| Type of Dumping | Agency | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| Household waste on public land | Local code enforcement / 311 | Dial 311 |
| Hazardous chemicals or waste | EPA | epa.gov | 1-800-424-4372 |
| Dumping in waterways or wetlands | EPA + Army Corps of Engineers | epa.gov |
| Motor oil down storm drains | Local stormwater authority | 311 |
| Construction debris | Local building department | 311 |
| Dumping on private property | Local police + code enforcement | 311 or non-emergency line |
How to Report Illegal Dumping Step by Step
- Do not touch or disturb the waste. Some illegally dumped materials may be hazardous — chemicals, asbestos, syringes, or contaminated soil. Do not approach closely, touch anything, or attempt to clean it up yourself before authorities assess it.
- Document with photos and location. Take clear photos of the dumped materials and the exact location. Note the street address or nearest cross-streets. If you witnessed the dumping, note the vehicle description, license plate, and time — this information dramatically increases the chance of prosecution.
- Call 311 for household or commercial waste. In most U.S. cities, 311 connects you to the correct local department — code enforcement, public works, or sanitation. Provide your photos, exact location, and any vehicle information. Request a case number for follow-up.
- Use your city’s 311 app if available. Many cities including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston, and Philadelphia have 311 apps that let you submit a photo and GPS location directly. This is the fastest way to report and creates an automatic work order.
- Report hazardous waste to the EPA immediately. If the dumped material appears to be chemicals, industrial waste, medical waste, or anything that could contaminate water or soil, report to the EPA at epa.gov/enforcement/report-environmental-violation or call 1-800-424-4372. Hazardous waste dumping is a federal crime.
- Report to your state environmental agency. Every state has its own environmental enforcement agency in addition to the EPA. State agencies often respond faster to local incidents. Search “[your state] environmental complaint” to find the right agency.
- Report to local police if you witnessed the act. If you saw someone actively dumping, call your local non-emergency police line or 311. A police report creates an official record and enables prosecution. Provide the vehicle description and license plate if you have it.
- Follow up if no action is taken. If the waste is not cleaned up within a reasonable time (typically 5–10 business days for household waste), call 311 again and reference your original case number. Escalate to your city council representative if necessary.
Reporting Illegal Dumping in Your State
In California, report to CalRecycle at calrecycle.ca.gov/SWFacilities/Enforcement or your county environmental health department. California has aggressive illegal dumping enforcement with fines up to $10,000. In Texas, report to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality at tceq.texas.gov/complaints. In Florida, contact the Florida DEP at floridadep.gov/waste. In New York, report to the NY DEC at dec.ny.gov/regulatory/2879.html.
Frequently Asked Questions
For related guides see: How to Report EPA Violations Anonymously, How to Report Garbage Not Picked Up, and our Environmental Reporting Hub.