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Contra Costa County, CA Trash & Recycling: Illegal Dumping (2026)

Heavy Restrictions

Verified 1 month ago|Source: CA Penal Code 374.3 →

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Key Facts

Penal Code: 374.3
Max misdemeanor fine: $10,000
Jail time: Up to 6 months
Vehicle impound: Possible
Cleanup liability

City-specific rules exist: Richmond, Pittsburg, Walnut Creek, Brentwood, Antioch, Concord, Oakley, Martinez, and San Ramon have their own illegal dumping rules that differ from Contra Costa County's county-level regulations. If you live in one of those cities, check the city-specific page instead.

Summary

Contra Costa County Code Chapter 418-10 and Penal Code 374.3 make illegal dumping a misdemeanor with fines up to $10,000, possible jail time, and mandatory cleanup costs. County operates illegal dumping hotline.

Full Breakdown

Dumping waste on public or private property without consent is prohibited under Contra Costa County Ordinance Code Chapter 418-10 and California Penal Code Section 374.3. First offenses are infractions carrying fines of $250 to $1,000; subsequent offenses or dumping of more than one cubic yard elevates to misdemeanor with fines up to $10,000 and up to six months in county jail. Vehicles used in dumping may be impounded. The County Illegal Dumping Initiative and Contra Costa Sheriff's Office investigate reports, and the Department of Conservation and Development coordinates cleanup. Residents report dumping to the County hotline or through the SeeClickFix platform. Offenders are liable for actual cleanup costs, which can exceed the statutory fines for large-volume dumps. Hidden surveillance cameras are deployed at hotspots along Kirker Pass, Marsh Creek Road, and Vasco Road.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I report illegal dumping?

Call the Contra Costa County illegal dumping hotline at 1-800-NO-DUMPING or submit via the County's online reporting tool.

Is dumping yard waste illegal?

Yes. Dumping any solid waste, including yard trimmings, on property you don't own without permission is illegal under Penal Code 374.3.

How does Contra Costa County compare?

See how Contra Costa County's illegal dumping rules stack up against other locations.

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Contra Costa County, CA Trash & Recycling: Illegal Dumping (2026)

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