Illegal dumping

Illegal dumping is a crime with a maximum individual fine of $50,000.  However, it continues to take place in our communities and all across the province of New Brunswick.  Residents must take responsibility to monitor and sustain our environment.  We all need to take illegal dumping seriously.

What is illegal dumping?

Illegal dumping occurs when unwanted waste is disposed of in locations such as: vacant or private properties, crown lands, woods, bushes, roadsides and waterways.

What type of impact does illegal dumping have on us and our environment?

Illegal dumping can:

  • Cause serious health problems associated with the attraction of disease infected rodents;

  • Cause environmental problems connected with the improper disposal of hazardous waste;

  • Sends out a false message that it is an acceptable thing to do; and

  • It detracts from our environment of the natural environment around us.

Why do residents resort to illegal dumping?

Many people resort to illegal dumping to save on: tipping fees and/or time and effort.  They also perform the crime due to lack of environmental education, lack of knowledge concerning proper disposal methods, low fines and low risk of getting caught.

Who is responsible to clean up these illegal dump sites?

Private property owners are responsible to post no dumping signs and to clean up their property.  In the case of illegal dumping on crown lands, the Province of New Brunswick is required to clean up these illegal dump sites.

Reporting a person or persons dumping waste illegally:

Record the date, time, and location when the incident occurred.  Document an accurate description of the violator(s) and of the vehicle that was used, along with the vehicle’s license plate number, write the items that were disposed of and take pictures.

Reporting an unknown illegal dump site:

Record the date and time; take GPS coordinates and pictures.  The information documented should then be compiled and reported to either of the following:

  • Contact your local Department of Environment;

  • Contact the New Brunswick Crime Stoppers hotline at: 1-800-222-8477 (1-800-222-TIPS) or online at http://www.crimenb.ca/

What types of fines are associated with illegal dumping if a person(s) is caught and charged?

Provincial laws provided fines and or jail time for this crime.  Any person(s) caught and charged with illegal dumping are subject to a fine of $500.00.  The fines can go up to as much as $50,000.00 for individuals.  Any company(s) caught performing this crime can be charged with fines ranging from $1,000.00 to $1 million dollars.

What else can I do to help stop illegal dumping?

You can take action by:

  • Participating in local and rural area clean ups

  • Reporting new found illegal dump sites or person(s) seen illegally dumping waste

  • Letting others know the effects and alternatives of illegal dumping

  • Practicing the 4Rs: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and Rethink

Everyone must take responsibility and become ambassadors for the prevention of illegal dumping.

Where can large items be disposed of?

  • Ensure you are properly disposing of your waste.

  • Contact the local authorities or solid waste services to verify when spring, summer and fall clean ups are being held in your area.

  • Consider donating your used items to a good cause such as the Salvation Army, Red Cross, Diabetes Association, second hand stores, etc…

  • Large unwanted items can be placed at your curb to be collected by your local garbage collector.

  • Transport your unwanted items to a transfer station or landfill near you.

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