San Mateo County, CA Trash & Recycling: Illegal Dumping (2026)
Key Facts
- Illegal dumping
- Misdemeanor
- Littering
- Infraction
- Major violation fine
- $3,000 per item
- Removal window
- 24 hours after notice
- Enforcement
- Citation + County Counsel civil action
Summary
Unincorporated San Mateo County treats illegal dumping as a misdemeanor and littering as an infraction, with major violations, mattresses, appliances, commercial quantities, drawing $3,000 administrative penalties per item.
A. Illegal Dumping is a Misdemeanor. Illegal dumping is a misdemeanor violation of this code and this chapter, in addition to any California Penal Code violations and any administrative or civil penalties that may apply to such illegal dumping. B. Littering is an Infraction. Littering is an infraction violation of this code and this chapter, in addition to any California Penal Code violations and any administrative or civil penalties that may apply to such littering.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 47).
Full Breakdown
Chapter 3.50 makes illegal dumping a misdemeanor and littering an infraction under Section 3.50.050, on top of any Penal Code charges. Section 3.50.060 layers on administrative remedies: dumping a mattress, appliance, tires, household or upholstered furniture, universal waste, electronic waste, harmful waste, or a commercial quantity (one cubic yard or more) is a 'major violation.' A major violator who fails to remove the waste within 24 hours of notice faces a $3,000 administrative penalty, and each item or cubic yard counts as a separate violation. County Counsel can also pursue civil remedies, and participants are jointly and severally liable.
Violations & Fines
Illegal dumping is a misdemeanor and littering an infraction; major violations (mattresses, appliances, furniture, commercial quantities) carry a $3,000 administrative penalty per item if not removed within 24 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
What counts as a 'major violation'?
How much is the fine for a major violation?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Mateo County
California rules heatmap·Compare San Mateo County to another location·View the California trash & recycling overview
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