Who Illegally Dumps Waste?
It is difficult to profile a “typical” illegal dumper. However, offenders can include • Construction, demolition, remodeling, roofing, or landscaping contractors • Waste management companies or general hauling contractors • Operators of transfer stations or junkyards • Automobile repair or tire shops • Scrap collectors • Local residents and “do-it-yourselfers” An individual may claim to be operating a transfer station or recycling business and accept waste at an unpermitted facility, only to abandon the facility when it reaches capacity. A resident may dump wastes that did not get picked up by local waste haulers, such as bulky items, carpeting, or household hazardous wastes. In many cases, illegal dumpers are breaking other laws relating to vehicle licensing, insurance, drug possession, or theft. Why is Illegal Dumping a Problem? The health risks associated with illegal dumping are significant. Areas used for illegal dumping may be easily accessible to people, especially children, who
