Illegal Dumping in Niagara
Illegal dumping is the disposal of material in non-designated, publicly owned areas, such as:
- Public roads
- Ditches
- Public property
- Rural areas
- Vacant lots
- Public garbage bins
Dumping is a crime.
We're working with all 12 cities / towns in Niagara to reduce illegal dumping and hold those who dump responsible for their actions.
Report illegal dumping
If you witness illegal dumping or find dumped materials, report it.
- Complete an online form
- Call 905-356-4141 or 1-800-594-5542
- Report anonymously at Crime Stoppers of Niagara
- Niagara Waste App - reporting tool:
Rewards for reporting
- $50: Given to any person whose report of illegal dumping results in an act of compliance or a conviction under 37.2 or 37.3 of the Waste By-law
- $200: Given to any person whose report of illegal dumping leads to a conviction under 37.1 of the Waste By-law
Charges and fines
Illegal dumping carries a maximum fine of $10,000 for serious offences. Additionally, set fines are in place for the contravention of the Waste Management By-law.
- Illegal Dumping General Prohibition: $500
- Illegal Dumping in a Public Litter / Recycling Bin: $150
- Illegal Dumping Care and Control: $250
Learn how to properly dispose items using the Waste Wizard.
What to look for
Items that are usually illegally dumped include:
- Household garbage
- Construction and demolition materials, such as shingles or scrap metal
- Appliances
- Furniture
- Tires
- Landscaping and yard waste
- Chemical and medical waste, such as paint or oil
- Dumping in public litter bins
Number of reports submitted
Year | Reports Submitted |
---|---|
2022 | 675 |
2021 | 748 |
2020 | 678 |
2019 | 677 |
2018 | 755 |
2017 | 680 |
2016 | 589 |
2015 | 530 |
2014 | 506 |
2013 | 394 |
Total | 6232 |