Santa Rosa County, FL Trash & Recycling: Illegal Dumping (2026)
Key Facts
- State law
- FS 403.413 (litter law)
- Small dump (<15 lbs)
- $150 civil infraction
- Mid amount
- 1st-degree misdemeanor
- Over 500 lbs / commercial
- 3rd-degree felony
- Report to
- Code Enforcement / Sheriff
Summary
Illegal dumping is enforced under Florida's litter law (FS 403.413) and by county Code Enforcement. Dumping up to 15 lbs / 27 cubic feet for non-commercial purposes is a $150 civil infraction; larger amounts are misdemeanors or third-degree felonies. Report dumping to Code Enforcement or the Sheriff's environmental unit.
Unless otherwise authorized by law or permit, it is unlawful for any person to dump litter in any manner or amount in or on any of the following areas... any person who dumps litter in violation of subsection (4) in an amount not exceeding 15 pounds in weight or 27 cubic feet in volume and not for commercial purposes commits a noncriminal infraction, punishable by a civil penalty of $150.
Full Breakdown
Florida Statute 403.413(4) makes it unlawful to dump litter on public roads, waterways, or private property without consent. Penalties escalate by volume: not exceeding 15 pounds / 27 cubic feet (non-commercial) is a $150 civil penalty; over that but under 500 lbs / 100 cubic feet is a first-degree misdemeanor; over 500 lbs / 100 cubic feet, or any commercial dumping, is a third-degree felony. Santa Rosa County Code Enforcement lists illegal dumping among what it investigates, and dumping can be reported to Code Enforcement or the Sheriff's Office environmental unit (Environmental@srso.net / 850-981-2109).
Violations & Fines
FS 403.413(6): $150 civil infraction up to 15 lbs/27 cu ft; first-degree misdemeanor to 500 lbs/100 cu ft; third-degree felony above that or any commercial dumping.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the fine for illegal dumping in Santa Rosa County?
How do I report illegal dumping?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Santa Rosa County
Florida rules heatmap·Compare Santa Rosa County to another location·View the Florida trash & recycling overview
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