Albany, NY Trash & Recycling: Illegal Dumping (2026)
Key Facts
- First-offense fine
- $100
- Repeat-offense cap
- $1,000 maximum
- Applies to
- public and private property
- Litter includes
- trash, debris, canine waste
Summary
It's illegal to dump litter, debris, or refuse on any public or private property in Albany; violators face escalating fines starting at $100.
No person shall litter any private property within the City of Albany, whether or not the property is owned by or is within the control of such person. The owner or person in control of any private property shall at all times maintain the property free of litter and shall prevent litter placed in litter receptacles on the property from being carried by the elements upon any public place or private property.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: rev 4873446; v61 updated 2026-03-18; through 03-18-2026).
Full Breakdown
Albany's litter ordinance makes it unlawful to dump litter -- defined to include garbage, trash, refuse, building and construction debris and canine waste -- on any private property or public place within the city, regardless of who owns the property (City Code § 313-39). Property owners and occupants must also keep their own property and the adjoining public way free of litter (§ 313-38). Violations carry a fine of $100 for a first offense, rising by $250 for each subsequent offense up to a $1,000 cap (§ 313-44).
Violations & Fines
First offense: $100 fine. Each subsequent offense adds $250, capping at $1,000 per violation, under City Code § 313-44.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it illegal to dump trash on someone else's property in Albany?
What's the fine for illegal dumping in Albany?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Albany
New York rules heatmap·Compare Albany to another location·View the New York trash & recycling overview
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Illegal Dumping in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Albany County handle illegal dumping.