Illegal dumping is defined as discarding waste in an improper or illegal manner. It occurs when an individual or business discards their waste where it doesn't belong rather than disposing of that waste through proper channels.
Health & Environmental Risks
Direct contact exposure to sharp objects, medical waste, toxic substances (especially a risk for children playing in the areas)
Habitat/breeding ground for potential disease-carrying vectors
Indirect exposure to toxic chemicals/hazardous waste
Drinking water quality issues related to non-point pollution
Harmful impact on native wildlife
Aesthetic Costs
Offensive sights and smells
Negative perceptions of community
Negative perceptions of capital investments value by potential new businesses
Other Costs
Public dollars spent using city employees to clean up each mess.
Hours of labor lost as city employees clean up instead of their regular day of maintenance.
Consequences of Illegal Dumping
Violators found guilty of illegal dumping can face fines of up to $500. Illegal dumping is prohibited by several city ordinances including: Ordinance 16-2 Public Nuisances, generally 16-17 Litter in public places generally, 16-31 Litter of Vacant Lots.
Solutions
The Solid Waste Department is continually working to help cut down this problem.
Drop your waste off at the landfill for FREE, once a month with a current paid City of Roswell water bill.
Call our landfill and work out a plan to help dispose of your residential and commercial waste.
Utilize our CleanIt! Form to help report cases of illegal dumping or call Code Enforcement at 575-637-6280.
Contact Us
City of Roswell 425 N Richardson Roswell, NM 88201
Contact Us
City of Roswell 425 N Richardson Roswell, NM 88201
Phone: 575-624-6700 | Email Us