Los Angeles County, CA Trash & Recycling: Illegal Dumping (2026)
Key Facts
- Applies in
- Unincorporated LA County only
- Penalty
- Vehicle seizure and forfeiture
- DA filing deadline
- 14 days after seizure notice
- Proceeds split
- 60% agency, 25% DA, 15% county
- Citation
- County Code Chapter 13.80
Summary
In unincorporated LA County, any vehicle used to dump bulky items, hazardous waste, or solid waste on public or private property is declared a public nuisance and subject to seizure and forfeiture.
"Illegal dumping" is the willful throwing, dropping, placing or depositing of a bulky item, hazardous waste or solid waste on public or private property not designated for that dumping or disposal purpose. ... Any vehicle used for the purpose of illegal dumping is a nuisance and the vehicle shall be enjoined and abated as provided in this section.
Full Breakdown
County Code § 13.80.020 defines illegal dumping as willfully throwing, dropping, placing, or depositing a bulky item, hazardous waste, or solid waste on property not designated for that purpose. Under § 13.80.030, a vehicle used for illegal dumping, or to transport dumped material, becomes county property upon seizure by an authorized peace officer, either under a court order or when there is probable cause of a violation. The district attorney has 14 days to file for forfeiture after the seizure notice, and any claimant gets a post-seizure hearing before a Superior Court decides the case. This applies within unincorporated Los Angeles County.
Violations & Fines
A vehicle forfeited under this chapter is sold; proceeds first cover towing, storage, and lien costs, then split 60% to the seizing agency, 25% to the district attorney, 15% to the county general fund.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Los Angeles County seize my vehicle for illegal dumping?
What counts as illegal dumping under the county code?
Does this ordinance apply in the City of Los Angeles?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Los Angeles County
California rules heatmap·Compare Los Angeles County to another location·View the California trash & recycling overview
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