Illegal Dumping

Warning - No Dumping

Protect Our Community and Report Illegal Dumping

Illegal dumping is against the law and can result in serious penalties. This includes dumping at unauthorized sites, burning non-vegetative materials, burying waste without a permit, using waste as fill, and disposing of waste in water. Unsecured loads that cause littering are also considered illegal dumping.

Beyond the legal consequences, illegal dumping creates environmental, health, and economic hazards for the entire community. Everyone is encouraged to do their part by disposing of waste properly to protect our community and avoid costly penalties.

  1. Community & Environmental Impacts
  2. Violation Penalties
  3. Report Illegal Dumping

Why Illegal Dumping Endangers People and the Environment

Acting early helps stop small problems from becoming major hazards. Illegal dumping poses serious risks to health, safety, and the environment. 

  • Disease Risks: Tires and other waste collect stagnant water, creating breeding grounds for mosquitoes that may spread diseases such as encephalitis and West Nile Virus.
  • Pests and Hazards: Illegal dumps attract rodents and insects, and abandoned appliances such as refrigerators can trap and suffocate children.
  • Fire Dangers: Decomposing waste produces methane gas, which is highly explosive. Fires can also occur when dumped waste spontaneously combusts.
  • Flooding Risks: Waste that clogs ravines, creeks, culverts, and drainage basins can block water flow and cause flooding.
  • Water & Soil Chemical Contamination: Batteries, asbestos, cleaning chemicals, and lead-based paint can leach into the soil. Runoff may contaminate wells and surface water used for drinking.
  • Toxic Airborne Materials: Asbestos fibers can cause lung disease, lead exposure can harm children’s development, and gypsum drywall can release hydrogen sulfide gas, which is toxic and flammable.

Impact on Economic Development and Tourism

Dumpsites lower property values, attract crime, and discourage investment. In fast-growing areas, they can slow development and reduce opportunity. Tourism is also at risk. Our region's natural beauty draws visitors each year, but illegal dumps scar these landscapes, reduce scenic appeal, and threaten an industry vital to Eastern North Carolina's economy.

Impact on Community Pride

Illegal dumps weaken community pride and quality of life. Small piles of waste can quickly grow if ignored, making property harder to sell and leaving owners with costly cleanup bills. Residents near illegal dump sites can also experience significant strain on their mental health such as stress, depression, and anxiety.