Galveston County, TX Trash & Recycling: Illegal Dumping (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing law
- Tex. H&S Code § 365.012
- Where enforced
- County-wide and in cities
- Small amount
- Class C misdemeanor (≤5 lbs)
- 1,000+ lbs
- State jail felony
- Galveston fill dumping
- Permit required (§ 18-20)
Summary
Illegal dumping is a state crime enforceable countywide: disposing of litter or solid waste at an unapproved site is an offense under Texas law, escalating from a Class C misdemeanor to a state jail felony based on weight and volume.
A person commits an offense if the person disposes or allows or permits the disposal of litter or other solid waste at a place that is not an approved solid waste site, including a place not authorized for that purpose by the commission.
Full Breakdown
Texas Health & Safety Code Sec. 365.012 makes it an offense to dispose of, or allow the disposal of, litter or solid waste at a place that is not an approved solid waste site. Penalties scale by amount: five pounds or less is a Class C misdemeanor; larger loads become Class B, Class A, or a state jail felony for 1,000+ pounds, 200+ cubic feet, commercial dumping, or waste in a closed barrel or drum. This applies in unincorporated Galveston County and inside cities. The City of Galveston also requires a permit before dumping any fill material (Sec. 18-20).
Violations & Fines
Ranges from a Class C misdemeanor (5 lbs or less) up to a state jail felony (1,000+ lbs, 200+ cubic feet, commercial, or closed barrel/drum) under § 365.012.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is illegal dumping a felony in Texas?
Who enforces dumping laws in unincorporated Galveston County?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Galveston County
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Galveston County to another location·View the Texas trash & recycling overview
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