West Haven, CT Trash & Recycling: Illegal Dumping (2026)

Chapter 142 of the West Haven Code, the West Haven Anti-Litter Ordinance, adopted by the City Council in 1970, is the city's dumping law. Section 142-19 bars anyone from throwing or depositing litter on any occupied private property within the city, whether owned by that person or not, with one exception: the owner or person in control can keep authorized private receptacles, placed so litter is not carried onto a street, sidewalk, public place or other private property. Section 142-21 separately bars throwing or depositing litter on any open or vacant private property in the city, whether owned by the person or not. Section 142-20 requires the owner or person in control of private property to keep the premises free of litter at all times.

Public land is covered too. Section 142-3 bars litter on any street, sidewalk or other public place except in public receptacles, authorized private receptacles or official city dumps. Section 142-10 covers parks and § 142-11 bars litter in any fountain, pond, lake, stream, bay or other body of water.

The city can clean up after a negligent owner. Under § 142-22 the Health Officer notifies the owner of open or vacant private property by registered mail to dispose of dangerous litter. If the owner fails to act within 10 days after receipt of the notice, or within 15 days after the date of notice if it is returned undelivered, the Health Officer can pay for or order disposal. The actual cost, plus interest at 6% per annum, goes on the owner's next regular tax bill. If the owner has not paid within 30 days after the disposal, a sworn statement recorded in the City Clerk's office becomes a lien on the property, and unpaid charges carry a delinquent penalty of 1/2% per month.

Section 216-2 adds a rule for vehicle parts: no one can leave, dump or abandon any automobile body, chassis, wheel or part on private property in West Haven without the written permission of the owner or lessor.