Texas penal code illegal dumping. 1. 001 that allows cit-ies to increase the penalties for dumping in violation 2024 Texas Statutes Health and Safety Code Title 5 - Sanitation and Environmental Quality Subtitle B - Solid Waste, Toxic Chemicals, Sewage, Litter, and Water Chapter 365 - Litter Subchapter B. Who are the volunteers of Fort Worth’s Code Rangers program and what do they do? Health & Safety Code Section 365. (a) A person commits an offense only if he voluntarily engages in conduct, including an act, an omission, or possession. ) Two of the criminal laws that approach dumping from the perspec-tive of maintaining the health of your community are Chapters 341 and 343 of the Texas Health & Safety Code. m. No. Sec. (a) A person commits an offense if the person disposes or allows or permits the disposal of litter or other solid waste at a place that is not an approved solid waste site, including a place on or within 300 feet of a public highway, on a right-of-way, on other public or A full time Environmental Prosecutor is assigned by the County Attorney to prosecute misdemeanor environmental crimes, such as illegal dumping, illegal outdoor burning, water pollution, and public nuisances. Dumps can be a breeding ground for rats and mosquitoes. 011. A: Illegal dumping is the improper disposal of waste at any location other than a permitted landfill or special facility. 002. “Illegal Dumping” is disposing any “solid waste” or “litter” in any unauthorized place Americans consume a lot of world resources (i. This applies to businesses discarding commercial waste improperly or individuals dumping household trash in unauthorized areas. The change in law made by this Act applies only to an offense committed on or after the effective date of this Act. ILLEGAL ENTRY INTO THIS STATE TITLE 11. 1 enforce rules regarding illegal dumping and weed control. (2) “Animal” means a domesticated living creature, including any stray or feral cat or dog, and a wild living creature previously captured. Illegal dumping is a crime and should be reported. If you witness illegal dumping in progress, report it by calling the Public Safety Department at (562) 929-5732 Feb 27, 2025 · Texas Penalties for Illegal Dumping The punishment for illegal dumping depends on the amount and type of waste discarded. 08. PREEMPTION Sec. Terms Used In Texas Health and Safety Code 365. 04 Note that using someone else's dumpster without his permission carries the same penalties as illegally dumping the same amount of solid waste. Notes 4 Tex. 04. Illegal Dumping; Discarding Lighted Materials; Criminal Penalties Mar 4, 2025 · Learn about Texas animal abandonment laws, including legal definitions, penalties, enforcement, and civil liability for those who leave pets without care. Here are some things you can do now: The State Legislature has given your sheriff, police department, and county prosecutor all the laws they need to get the job done (see chart. While penalties vary from state to state, illegal dumping in Texas is considered a serious crime and can be very costly. Violation of TCEQ Litter Rules and Standards. Environmental Detective Carlton Brown said no part of the county is immune to it. Health & Safety Code § 365. It’s against the law and can pose serious threats to our rivers, creeks, and the overall environment. 2024 Texas Statutes Health and Safety Code Title 5 - Sanitation and Environmental Quality Subtitle B - Solid Waste, Toxic Chemicals, Sewage, Litter, and Water Chapter 365 - Litter Subchapter B. Texas Statutes Code , Health and Safety Code; Title 5, Sanitation and Environmental Quality; Subtitle B, Solid Waste, Toxic Chemicals, Sewage, Litter, and Wa Dumping in Waters, Streams, Lakes or ponds - Texas Water Code 7. 022 that any animal in the person's possession has been cruelly treated, regardless of whether the animal was subjected to conduct prohibited by Section 21. After a resident gets an SR (Service Request) number from 311 then you are asked to call the illegal dumping hotline (214-671-CODE) to get updates on the case. If the dumping occurs anywhere but a location designated for trash disposal, that constitutes illegal dumping. Explore the fines and penalties defined in the Texas Penal Code 31. Theft of Services: An Overlooked Transgression Sec. 3, the legal team at Bulldog Law is ready to help. If the dumpster has not been rented by you, or you do not have permission of the owner/lessee, you are committing a crime when you use it. 145/7. Public Health Nuisance 343. Regulations regarding illegal dumping can be found in the Texas Health and Safety Code (THSC), as well as in the Texas Water Code (TWC). 3 makes illegal dumping on private and public property punishable by a fine of up to $10,000, and/or up to six months in jail. HEALTH AND SAFETY CODE CHAPTER 364. In many municipalities throughout the state. This carries the same punishment range as illegal dumping. 091. 092. (a) A person commits an offense if the person disposes or allows or permits the disposal of litter or other solid waste at a place that is not an approved solid waste site, including a place on or within 300 feet of a public highway, on a right-of-way, on other public or private Jul 13, 2022 · If you get caught illegally dumping, you can face steep fines up to thousands of dollars or possibly even jail time. Theft of Petroleum Product Current as of January 01, 2024 | Updated by FindLaw Staff (a) In this section, “ petroleum product ” means crude oil, natural gas, or condensate. An offense under Subsection (a)(1), (5), (6), (7), or (8) is a state jail felony, except that the Apr 9, 2025 · The Travis County Sheriff's Office said it's responding to more illegal dumping cases as the area grows. FIREWORKS CHAPTER 51. Our experienced attorneys understand the stakes and know how to challenge weak evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and protect your record. The unauthorized use of another person’s dumpster, including the unauthorized use of a business dumpster is a crime. 678, Sec. CONCURRENT JURISDICTION UNDER THIS CODE TO PROSECUTE OFFENSES THAT INVOLVE STATE […] An offense under Subsection (a)(2), (3), (4), or (9) is a Class A misdemeanor, except that the offense is a state jail felony if the person has previously been convicted two times under this section, two times under Section 42. Codes and Statutes › Texas Statutes › 2019 Texas Statutes › Health and Safety Code › Title 5 - Sanitation and Environmental Quality › Subtitle B - Solid Waste, Toxic Chemicals, Sewage, Litter, and Water › Chapter 365 - Litter › Subchapter B. Summaries of these rules appear below. The legislature finds that: (1) when properly managed and recycled, used oil is a valuable energy resource; (2) used oil can be recycled into a number of different products; (3) improper disposal of used oil is a significant environmental problem and a waste of a potentially valuable energy resource; (4) there is a need for an expanded statewide network of used oil Texas Illegal Dumping Resource Center Principles of Enforcement and Abatement TEXAS HEALTH AND SAFETY CODE Sec. ) Jun 26, 2024 · While penalties vary from state to state, illegal dumping in Texas is considered a serious crime and can be very costly. INTRODUCTORY PROVISIONS CHAPTER 1. Feb 13, 2024 · In Texas, this can be considered illegal dumping or theft of service, both of which can come with some hefty trouble. What You Can Do Law enforcement needs your help to win the war on illegal dumping. Jan 1, 2024 · (4) (A) If a person convicted under this subdivision holds a license or permit to conduct business that is substantially related to the illegal dumping for which the person was convicted, the court shall notify the applicable licensing or permitting entity subject to the jurisdiction of the Department of Consumer Affairs as set forth in Section Jul 18, 2015 · Penal Code 42. Environmental Enforcement Training for Texas Governments Our 2024 Illegal Dumping Enforcement Officer's Guide is out of print. OBJECTIVES OF CODE Sec. However, only around 3/4’s of Texas cities provide code enforcement processes for their citizens. 1 (the "District") is located in Bloomington, an unincorporated community, and has the powers and duties conferred by statute on water control districts created under Section 59, Article XVI of the Texas Constitution, including applicable provisions in Aug 24, 2022 · Reporting illegal dumping in Fort Worth is as easy as a phone call. Illegal Dumping; Discarding Lighted Materials; Criminal Penalties Illegal dumping is a problem that’s more common than you might think. MUNICIPAL REGULATION OF SUBDIVISIONS AND Aug 7, 2024 · Abandoning An Animal Under Texas Law Animal cruelty may appear in many ways, even in ways one might think is more humane than dumping an animal at the local shelter – dump them somewhere else and give them a chance at life. TERRITORIAL JURISDICTION Sec. 04 for such actions. What is considered abandonment of an animal in Texas? Sec. The term includes dirt, sand, gravel, refuse, and wood chips but excludes an agricultural product in its natural state. ORGANIZED CRIME CHAPTER 71. Sept. Current as of January 01, 2024 | Updated by FindLaw Staff. View a table explaining penalties of various forms of illegal dumping. 09. 092, or one time under this section and one time under Section 42. ENFORCEMENT OF MUNICIPAL ORDINANCES 6. Littering and illegal dumping are crimes in Texas, and violations may take place at both misdemeanor and felony levels. , ch. The City of Austin's Code Compliance team investigates illegal dumping and helps ensure our community is safe and clean. Citation: Texas Health & Safety Code § 365. Person: includes corporation, organization, government or governmental subdivision or agency, business trust, estate, trust, partnership, association, and any other legal Mar 15, 2025 · Texas law requires businesses and individuals to dispose of waste properly. Citizens can take an active role in stopping illegal dumping by following the suggestions listed below: Get full details of Tex. There is a complete discussion of the Texas Outdoor Burning Illegal dumping damages neighborhoods, ruins the beautiful views of our City, threatens the environment, and it is against the law. Keep in mind, there are many other statutes under Texas law designed to protect the Texas Health and Safety Code – HEALTH & SAFETY § 365. CONSTRUCTION OF CODE Sec. In New York City, improper disposal can result in fines up to $20,000 per offense under the city’s administrative code. In Texas, you can be charged with illegal dumping for something as simple as dropping your trash on your neighbor’s property because your trash can is packed to capacity. 19. GENERAL PROVISIONS Sec. LOCAL GOVERNMENT CODE CHAPTER 212. – 5:00 p. Report online by clicking here Q: What is illegal dumping? A: Illegal dumping is the improper disposal of waste at any location other than a permitted landfill or special facility. 02. ILLEGAL DUMPING; CRIMINAL PENALTIES. This service request will be investigated and addressed within 4 working days. SHORT TITLE Sec. (a) In this section: (1) "Abandon" includes abandoning an animal in the person's custody without making reasonable arrangements for assumption of custody by another person. (a) The governing body of a municipality or the commissioners court of a county may enforce any law that is reasonably neces-sary to protect the public health. Illegal Dumping; Discarding Lighted Materials; Criminal Penalties Sep 28, 2016 · Texas Codes includes Texas state laws on agriculture, business and commerce, civil practice, criminal procedure, education, family, health and safety, insurance, labor, penal law, probate, property and tax. Historically, most environmental enforcement has come from code enforcement officers. Jan 1, 2024 · Texas Health and Safety Code - HEALTH & SAFETY § 365. Disposal of Litter in a Cave. In addition to responding to complaints received, investigators proactively patrol the county looking for environmental crimes and violations. Basically, it boils down to this: if you're caught offloading your waste in a dumpster that's not yours, you could be facing fines or possibly even criminal charges. 012 (a) is in the Texas Health and Safety Code's Title 5, entitled “Sanitation and Environmental Quality” and bears the heading, “Illegal Dumping; Criminal Penalties. 012 Conviction: A judgement of guilt against a criminal defendant. The commission or the executive director may institute legal proceedings to compel compliance with the relevant Feb 21, 2024 · Animal Cruelty in Texas Explained Animal cruelty in Texas is defined under the Texas Penal Code Chapter 42, Sections 42. Texas Illegal Dumping Resource Center Principles of Enforcement and Abatement TEXAS HEALTH AND SAFETY CODE Sec. Typical illegally dumped materials include: construction waste and debris, appliances, automobiles, auto parts, tires, yard waste, and household trash. 09 We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. What most people don’t know is that it is considered a criminal offense when you abandon your pet. (a-1) A finding in a court of competent jurisdiction that a person is guilty of an offense under Section 21. ILLEGAL DUMPING; DISCARDING LIGHTED MATERIALS; CRIMINAL PENALTIES. It § 365. This bill combats illegal dumping by giving local authorities the power to prosecute those who order the Illegal dumping raises significant concerns regarding public health and safety, property values, and quality of life. (s)AAOn ILLEGAL DUMPING; DISCARDING LIGHTED MATERIALS; CRIMINAL PENALTIES. Discover what's prohibited, the penalties you face, and how to report environmental violations responsibly. Notice for Illegal DumpingAvoid Jail and Fines – Keep Texas Beautiful Stopping illegal dumping makes good environmental and economic sense, and it is everyone’s problem. Illegal use of a dumpster is also considered Theft of Service under the Texas Penal Code (31. 3 stipulates hefty fines for illegal dumping that can exceed $1,000 for first-time offenders and escalate with subsequent violations. This page serves as a resource for options for disposing of waste properly and reporting illegal dumping. TITLE 1. 016. The Unit investigates violations that threaten public health and the environment, working to hold individuals and organizations accountable for unlawful activity. Both charges can be filed at the same, constituting two separate offenses Oct 2, 2015 · By working together, communities and law enforcement can win the war on illegal dumping. Sep 15, 2025 · If a person convicted under paragraph (1) is the owner or operator of the business involved in the illegal dumping, and that business employs more than 10 full-time employees, the fine shall amount to not less than one thousand dollars ($1,000) nor more than five thousand dollars ($5,000) upon a first conviction, not less than three thousand (5) provision of supplemental funding to local governments for the enforcement of this chapter, the Texas Litter Abatement Act (Chapter 365), and Chapters 391 and 683, Transportation Code; (6) conduct of a statewide public awareness program concerning solid waste management; In recent years, Texas has seen an increase of illegal dumping and overall littering. Read the code on FindLaw conduct that constitutes an offense under Subsection (a-1) also constitutes an offense under Chapter 28, Penal Code, the actor may be prosecuted under Subsection (a-1) or Chapter 28, Penal Code, but not both. Many cities have good local ordinances that are effectively used to control dumping. Mar 12, 2025 · Learn how Texas law defines and penalizes cruelty to non-livestock animals, including legal exceptions, enforcement procedures, and possible defense strategies. • ILLEGAL Oct 26, 1999 · The City of Brownsville kindly asks that you assist us with keeping our city clean and report any illegal dumping to 546-HELP. Help Keep Victoria Beautiful and significantly reduce illegal dumping by working together with your local elected officials and law enforcement officers for a cleaner, healthier, and safer community. Illegal Dumping; Discarding Lighted Materials; Criminal Penalties (a) A person commits an offense if the person disposes or allows or permits the disposal of litter or other solid waste at a place that is not an approved solid waste site, including a place on or within 300 feet of a public highway, on a right-of-way, on other public Mar 12, 2025 · Texas Health and Safety Code 365. The Fort Bend County Environmental Crimes Unit (ECU) is responsible for enforcing laws that safeguard the waters of the state, land, and natural resources. Texas categorizes offenses as follows: – Less than 5 pounds – A Class C misdemeanor with fines up to $500. To report illegal dumping in McAllen contact: City of McAllen Health & Code Enforcement (956) 681-1900 or McAllen 3-1-1 Customer Service Call Center (956) 681-3111 Monday through Friday, 8:00 a. 012. 3 PC is the California statute that defines the crime of “illegal dumping. An offense under Subsection (a)(1), (5), (6), (7), or (8) is a state jail felony, except that the (4) "Disposal" means the discharge, deposit, injection, dumping, spilling, leaking, or placing of containerized or uncontainerized solid waste or hazardous waste into or on land or water so that the solid waste or hazardous waste or any constituent of solid waste or hazardous waste may enter the environment or be emitted into the air or Dec 25, 2024 · Enforcement and Reporting Enforcement of illegal dumping laws in California involves coordination between local government agencies, law enforcement, and community organizations. 3. 012 of the Texas Health and Safety Code. Illegal Dumping; Discarding Lighted Materials; Criminal Penalties. Certain Actions Prohibited Section 365. Justia › U. Illegal dumping contained in a closed barrel or drum, or for a commercial purpose carries increased penalties. Defendant: In a civil suit, the person complained against; in a criminal case, the person accused of the crime. 147 Illegal dumping of any waste material in waters of the state, streams, lakes, or ponds is a State Jail Felony, punishable by a $10,000. COUNTY SOLID WASTE 4. Nov 4, 2010 · (a) It shall be unlawful and declared a nuisance for any person owning, claiming, occupying, or having supervision or control of any real property, occupied or unoccupied, within the corporate limits of the city or its extraterritorial jurisdiction to permit or allow any refuse, rubbish, trash, debris, filth, carrion, junk, garbage, impure or unwholesome matter of any kind, or other . Jan 1, 2024 · Texas Health and Safety Code HEALTH & SAFETY TX HEALTH & S Section 365. 6. This influx is the direct result of corporations dumping scrap and other unwanted material in unapproved residential areas through various illegal means. 12 The provisions of this §59. Under current Texas Law, cruel treatment of animals is forbidden. 002 Water Pollution Controlled by Water Code The pollution of water in the state is controlled by Chapter 26 (Water Quality Control), Water Code, and other applicable law. 092 Cruelty to Nonlivestock Animals (a) In this section: (1) “Abandon” includes abandoning an animal in the person’s custody without making reasonable arrangements for assumption of custody by another person. 2/8/2022 Code enforcement can have only limited suc-cess when used to control illegal dumping since code officers are not empowered to enforce criminal statutes. The TCEQ administrative staff in the regional offices and at their Austin headquarters also enforce other rules issued under the Texas Clean Air Act and related statutes. How you can help Always properly dispose of your own trash and litter and encourage others to do the same. - Duty of landowner to maintain property. This and the next several chapters describe the primary Texas laws that a local community can use to control illegal dumping and oth-er forms of polluting. The Unit's goal is to prosecute violators of the Texas Health and Safety Code, Texas Water Code, and the Texas Clean Air Act. MUNICIPAL SOLID WASTE 3. Sep 1, 2023 · Texas Illegal Dumping Resource Center Online Class Readings TIDRC003 Illegal Dumping Enforcement [Enforcing THSC Chapter 365: The Litter Abatement Act] This is the reading material for our online class in Illegal Dumping Enforcement, which discusses using Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 365. Feb 3, 2024 · For instance, California Penal Code section 374. For more information about the legal concepts addressed by these cases and statutes, visit FindLaw’s Learn About the Law. (b) A person who dumps more than five pounds or 13 gallons of litter or other solid waste from a commercial vehicle in violation of this subchapter is presumed to be dumping the litter or other solid waste for a commercial purpose. What are the penalties of illegally dumping? The Texas Health and Safety Code §365. DEFINITIONS Sec. Illegal dumping on private property will be handled by Development Services, Code Enforcement division. Local authorities, such as city and county code enforcement officers, often take the lead in identifying and investigating incidents. Health & Safety Code Section 365. 8 ‐ Hazardous substance deposit on road, railroad right‐or‐way, lands, water Section 402b ‐ Large Appliances (Doors) Section 830. 017 Regulation of Litter in Certain Counties (a) The commissioners court of a county may adopt regulations to control the disposal of litter and the removal of illegally dumped litter from private property in unincorporated areas of that county. 4 ‐ Dumping and Littering Section 374. Law › U. You inform us that the Victoria County Water Control and Improvement District No. This web page explains the legal definition and penalties of illegal dumping and discarding lighted materials in Texas. Jan 18, 2022 · Texas law protects animals from abuse and neglect. Certain Actions Prohibited There Is a Newer Version of this Subchapter 2019 Texas Stat. Pollutants can seep into rivers and groundwater. 3 ‐ Dumping public or private road or property Section 374. (a) A person commits an offense if the person disposes or allows or permits the disposal of litter or other solid waste at a place that is not an approved solid waste site, including a place on or within 300 feet of a public highway, on a right-of-way, on other public or private SOLID WASTE DISPOSAL ACT 2. – Between 5 and 500 pounds – A Class B misdemeanor with fines up to $2,000 and 180 days in jail. ” Penal Code Section 372 ‐ Public Nuisance Section 373a ‐ Maintenance of a Public Nuisance Section 373. SECTION 3. Here are 2 common ordinance violations: Sec. RACKETEERING AND UNLAWFUL DEBT COLLECTION Sep 1, 1991 · The Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission shall adopt rules and standards regarding processing and treating litter disposed in violation of this sub Felonies 341. May 4, 2017 · ILLEGAL DUMPING WHERE IS IT IN THE CODE? It is NOT in the Texas Penal Code Authority to prosecute comes from Authorities investigate Illegal dumping in Texas is a crime, and dump sites reported will be investigated under Texas Health and Safety Code 365. 012 : HEALTH AND SAFETY CODE — SANITATION AND ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY — SOLID WASTE, TOXIC CHEMICALS, SEWAGE, LITTER, AND WATER — LITTER — CERTAIN ACTIONS PROHIBITED — Illegal Dumping; Discarding Lighted Materials; Criminal Penalties on CaseMine. 07. Aug 18, 2025 · Navigate Texas's illegal dumping laws. (2) "Loose material" means material that can be blown or spilled from a vehicle because of movement or exposure to air, wind currents, or other weather. • ILLEGAL Apr 24, 2024 · Uncover the legal risks of using someone else's dumpster without permission in Texas. 1, 1989. (a) In this section: (1) “Abandon” includes abandoning an animal in the person’s custody without making reasonable arrangements for assumption of custody by another person. 012 of the Texas Health and Safety Code makes illegal dumping of refuse under five pounds or five gallons a Class C misdemeanor. (2) a fine or penalty for the violation of a rule, ordinance, or police regulation that governs the dumping of refuse may not exceed $4,000. LOCAL GOVERNMENT CODE CHAPTER 54. Illegal dumping threatens our health and safety. Penalties under the Texas Litter Abatement Act: Health and Safety Code 365 •CLASS C MISDEMEANOR: Help •CLASS B MISDEMEANOR: Fine up to $2,000 and/or up to 180 days in jail STOP Code Compliance Services was awarded a grant in 2014 for $125,000 from the North Central Texas Council of Governments to facilitate public awareness and educational opportunities to reduce illegal dumping of scrap tires 2019 Texas Statutes Health and Safety Code Title 5 - Sanitation and Environmental Quality Subtitle B - Solid Waste, Toxic Chemicals, Sewage, Litter, and Water Chapter 365 - Litter Subchapter B. HEALTH AND SAFETY CODE CHAPTER 363. It typically happens in open areas such as fields or empty lots, abandoned industrial sites, along rural roads, in wooded areas, near creeks or lakes, in alleys, along Jul 19, 2020 · Dumpster diving is legal in Texas, but only if the trash is on public property. 05. Public areas, including parks, sidewalks, roadways, and waterways, have strict disposal prohibitions to prevent contamination and disease transmission. Once a site is used for illegal dumping, it usually attracts more illegal activity. 2022 Texas Statutes Health and Safety Code Title 5 - Sanitation and Environmental Quality Subtitle B - Solid Waste, Toxic Chemicals, Sewage, Litter, and Water Chapter 365 - Litter Subchapter B. An offense under Subsection (a)(2), (3), (4), or (9) is a Class A misdemeanor, except that the offense is a state jail felony if the person has previously been convicted two times under this section, two times under Section 42. Section 42. 09 and 42. Jan 1, 2024 · A free source of state and federal court opinions, state laws, and the United States Code. ” Under this code section, illegal dumping is the disposing of garbage, waste and other matter on public or private property. FINDINGS. 42. S. Now, in this article, we are going to find out where you can and can’t dumpster dive in Texas, as well as what will happen if you get caught illegally dumpster diving A Primer: Texas Animal Cruelty Laws Hill County Paw Pals cannot provide legal guidance or counsel regards legal issues with your pet (s). 012 classifies littering as the improper disposal of trash, debris, and other waste materials outside designated receptacles. Solid Waste Management crews will collect illegal dumping in the City's right of way. The Texas Health and Safety Code 365. The 84th State Legislature (2017) made changes to Local Government Code Sec. COMPUTATION OF AGE Sec. Chapter 341 applies everywhere in Texas and Chapter 343 is just for the rural Code Compliance Top Code Violations Illegal Dumping Illegal Dumping (Chapter 18 Section 12) Illegal Dumping is the improper disposal of waste at any location other than a permitted landfill or facility. ORGANIZED CRIME CHAPTER 72. Public Nuisance § 365. There are strict laws on the books with heavy penalties for those who violate sections 364 and 365 of the Texas Health and Safety Code. EFFECT OF CODE Sec. 013. 092, and includes acts such as torturing, neglecting, or abandoning animals. This law is also referred to as the Litter Abatement Act. Aug 4, 2004 · It is illegal to place trash, litter or solid waste into a private business dumpster with out the permission of the business owner. Government agencies across East Texas are more proactively investigating and prosecuting crimes related to the environment. Certain Actions Prohibited If conduct that constitutes an offense under Subsection (a-1) also constitutes an offense under Chapter 28, Penal Code, the actor may be prosecuted under Subsection (a-1) or Chapter 28, Penal Code, but not both. If you are the owner or driver of a vehicle used for illegal dumping, you may be fined up to $18,000 and the vehicle Penalties under the Texas Litter Abatement Act: Health and Safety Code 365 • CLASS C MISDEMEANOR: Fine up to $500 5 pounds or less or a volume of 5 gallons or less • CLASS B MISDEMEANOR: Fine up to $2,000 and/or up to 180 days in jail More than 5 pounds but less than 500 pounds or a volume of more than 5 gallons but less than 100 cubic feet • CLASS A MISDEMEANOR: Fine up to $4,000 and/or This includes violations of the Texas Health & Safety Code, Texas Water Code, Texas Penal Code and Texas Transportation Code. 012(c) Illegal Dumping [Transporting] Mar 18, 2025 · Relevant Statutes Texas littering laws fall under the Texas Health and Safety Code and the Texas Penal Code, which define illegal waste disposal and its consequences. • ILLEGAL May 8, 2023 · Well, it looks like using someone else's dumpster without their permission is illegal in Texas. Illegally dumping trash is considered a crime and a threat to public health and safety. 12 adopted to be effective December 19, 2007, 32 TexReg 9339; Amended by Texas Register, Volume 47, Number 05, February 4, 2022, TexReg 0503, eff. 365. Feb 18, 2023 · Well, it looks like using someone else's dumpster without their permission is illegal in Texas. 00 fine and/or up to 2 years in a state jail. According to the Texas Health and Safety Code, the punishment is more severe the more waste you dump. 54. Mar 12, 2025 · This web page provides local government leaders, nonprofit organizations, and Texans with information that will help in the fight against litter and illegal dumping. In recent years, Texas has seen an increase of illegal dumping and overall littering. 7. Jun 23, 2025 · Illegal Dumping Charges and Criminal Defense Attorneys in California If you're facing illegal dumping charges under Penal Code Section 374. (2) Filing everything as a Class C with the JP? Work with local prosecutors to create ways to file Class A and B Misdemeanors and felonies appropriately. 013 of this code and rules adopted under those provisions. The commission may initiate an action under this chapter to enforce provisions of this code and the Health and Safety Code within the commission's jurisdiction as provided by Section 5. 092 on 7/18/2015 Sec. Battery Dumping Dumping a lead-acid battery is a criminal offense punishable by up to 1 year of jail time and a fine up May 22, 2024 · Illegal dumping and improper waste disposal can result in more than just monetary fines, it can mean criminal charges, especially for hazardous materials. Learn more about the current civil and criminal laws that protect animals from cruelty. Since the State Legislature is about finished and any changes to the laws used will soon be finalized, we've decided to jump forward and work on the 2026 edition. Illegal Dumping. e. To avoid trespassing charges and conflicts with property owners, it is important to obtain explicit permission before accessing private property dumpsters. We are committed to keeping our neighborhoods clean and have placed cameras across the City to catch illegal dumpers. 06. HEALTH AND SAFETY CODE CHAPTER 365. 2021 Texas Statutes Health and Safety Code Title 5 - Sanitation and Environmental Quality Subtitle B - Solid Waste, Toxic Chemicals, Sewage, Litter, and Water Chapter 365 - Litter Subchapter B. Additional regulations regarding illegal dumping can be found in the Texas Health and Safety Code and the Texas Water Code. Illegal Dumping Statistics These show arrest and conviction rates from DPS for violations of THSC Chapter 365 at the B and A Misdemeanor and State Jail Felony levels. 09, Penal Code, is prima facie evidence at a hearing authorized by Section 821. California Penal Code 374. Water resources—such as ponds, streams, lakes, and even aquifers—can also become polluted from illegal dumping. 09 of the Texas Penal Code prohibits the intentional cruel treatment of animals. INTOXICATION AND ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE OFFENSES CHAPTER 50. In Texas, illegal dumping is classified as a misdemeanor or felony offense, punishable by fines or jail time. 03. 371. The following actions define cruel Jan 1, 2024 · Texas Penal Code - PENAL § 31. This bill combats illegal dumping by giving local authorities the power to prosecute those who order the Penal Code Section 42. Aug 27, 2025 · The Texas Penal Code defines trespassing as entering or remaining on another’s property without effective consent. Illegal Dumping It's ILLEGAL to dispose of any type of material or debris by vehicle and dump it on any street, lot, park, public space – public or private. Jun 24, 2025 · The Don't Mess with Texas® Water program can help prevent illegal dumping that affects surface waters of Texas. (a) It shall be unlawful for any owner or person in control of private property to place, deposit, throw, or permit or cause to be placed, deposited or thrown any litter on California Penal Code 374. Click Environmental Crime and Illegal Dumping to reference associated health Jan 1, 2024 · A free source of state and federal court opinions, state laws, and the United States Code. Admin. Their Environmental Crimes Unit enforces a wide range of criminal laws that protect our air, water, and land, including the felony laws against unpermitted burning. The information provided below is only for your reference. Property owners, taxpayers, and local governments in Texas spend millions of dollars each year cleaning up illegal dumps. In Texas, animal cruelty can be charged as a Class A misdemeanor or a state jail felony, depending on the nature of the alleged offense. REQUIREMENT OF VOLUNTARY ACT OR OMISSION. Code § 59. , 24% of energy; 19% copper; etc. (here) View Our Newest CHAPTER 48. 121. Dec 4, 2024 · Abandon is defined in the Texas Penal Code as abandoning an animal in the person’s custody without making reasonable arrangements for assumption of custody by another person. Illegal dumping' is putting trash, garbage, waste, anything discarded where it doesn't belong, whether or not the person dumping owns the property. 7 ‐ Dumping into Water Section 374. You may be punished under the Texas Penal Code for Class B Misdemeanor Theft or for Illegal Dumping. CRUELTY TO NONLIVESTOCK ANIMALS. 012 is the state statute addressing litter and illegal dumping crimes in Texas, however penalties fall under the Texas Litter Abatement Act, and include the following. The term does not include an uncaptured wild living creature […] Apr 13, 2000 · Aguirre, at 475-76 Section 365. According to Texas Penal VCode 31. 01. 1, eff. 003. Acts 1989, 71st Leg. POWERS OF MUNICIPALITIES AND COUNTIES. under Subsection (a-1) or Chapter 28, Penal Code, but not both. Using someone else's dumpster without permission can also be prosecuted under Texas Penal Code 31. It also provides exceptions, defenses, and enforcement procedures for this offense. Illegal Dumping; Discarding Lighted Materials; Criminal Penalties Jan 16, 2023 · Well, it looks like using someone else's dumpster without their permission is illegal in Texas. 011 classifies carcasses as “solid waste,” meaning improper disposal falls under the state’s illegal dumping laws. Law enforcement officials need your help in fighting environmental crime. The most common environmental charge is Illegal Dumping, criminalized under §365. 04) which is a Class B Misdemeanor. LITTER 5. 46-45. If the dumpsters are on private property, it is illegal to dive in the dumpsters unless you have authorization from the property owners or renters. Section 365. 6 ‐ Peace By working together, communities and law enforcement can win the war on Illegal Dumping. Code advises residents to still call 311 to report any illegal dumping in their area or call or 911 if they see illegal dumping currently in progress. CONDUCT AFFECTING PUBLIC HEALTH CHAPTER 49. ENFORCEMENT AUTHORITY. obpz yushd gykjt rscdq vkioubr suj pdallvia fdt fbnmlg vvc