Illegal dumping is the dumping solid waste onto the surface of the ground or into the waters of the state, except at a permitted disposal site. It's known in the regulations as "unlawful" dumping. Solid waste includes garbage, rubbish, abandoned vehicles or parts, demolition and construction waste, recyclable materials, etc.
Why is illegal dumping a public health problem? | - Decomposing garbage and other solid waste can provide food and habitat for rats, other rodents and other disease vectors. A vector is an insect or animal that has the potential to carry disease.
- Hazardous materials illegally dumped can cause direct effects on people's health, and can get into the water supply and create downstream health effects on people and the environment.
- Illegal dumping creates eyesores on our streets, reducing our quality of life, property values, and a feeling of safety and well-being in our communities.
What are the laws about illegal dumping? | Unlawful dumping is enforced by Public Health - Seattle & King County through the code of the King County Board of Health Title 10. Unlawful dumping is addressed in chapter 10.11.
What can be done about illegal dumping? |
- Report incidents of illegal dumping in King County to Public Health - Seattle & King County. In the case of abandoned vehicles, the complaint will be referred to the appropriate agency.
- When you call during the day, your complaint will be assigned to an Health and Environmental Investigator who will contact you in the process of resolving the issue. Call 206-205-4394. If you call after hours you may leave a message.
- The City of Seattle operates an illegal dumping hotline and website. If you live in the City of Seattle, call 206-684-7587 to report garbage or debris dumped on public property, such as a city roadsides, open streets and paved alleys.
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