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.
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.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
See how Contra Costa County's illegal dumping rules stack up against other locations.
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