Seattle, WA Trash & Recycling: Illegal Dumping (2026)

420 makes it unlawful to dump, throw, or place solid waste on any property, public or private, or in a public place, except in an authorized container or at a site designated by the Director of Seattle Public Utilities (SPU). The dumper must remove and properly dispose of the waste. The section exempts only litter of 1 cubic foot or less that contains no hazardous substances. 920. 070, with a litter cleanup restitution payment equal to the greater of twice the actual removal/disposal cost or $50 per cubic foot.

195 and may suspend it for a first-time offender who removes the litter. 921, using a fine schedule: a $100 base fee (no prior violations) or $500 base fee (a prior similar violation within 12 months), plus $200 for up to 400 pounds, $500 for 400-1,000 pounds, or $1,500 for 1,000 pounds up to 3 tons, each on top of the base fee and actual cleanup costs. 36 violations not covered above draw a $50 civil penalty per violation plus $50 per day it continues, filed by the City in Seattle Municipal Court.

A party served a notice of violation may request written review by the SPU Director within 10 business days; the Director's decision on review is final and not subject to further administrative appeal.