Dumping trash, garbage, or debris on public property, a highway right-of-way, or private property without the owner's written consent is a misdemeanor under Virginia Code § 33.2-802, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and fines of $500 to $2,500.
Virginia's anti-dumping law makes it unlawful to dump or dispose of trash, garbage, refuse, litter, a companion animal, or other unsightly matter on public property (including a highway or its right-of-way) or on private property without the owner's written consent. Chesterfield enforces this alongside its Community Enhancement program, which takes complaints about trash and discarded materials. Because the county has no municipal collection, residents must use a private hauler or the convenience centers; roadside dumping and open-lot dumping are the offenses most often reported. Report illegal dumping to Community Enhancement (804-748-1500) or law enforcement.
A Class 1 misdemeanor: up to 12 months in jail and a fine of $500 to $2,500, or both. Courts may instead order at least 10 hours of community service in litter abatement.
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