Report All Illegal Dumping and Help Keep Vancouver Spectacular!
- What is illegal dumping?
- How do I report illegal dumping?
- What about garbage dumped illegally on private property or vacant lots?
- Will it make a difference?
- How do I dispose of a large item like a mattress or fridge?
- How do I do more?
What Is Illegal Dumping?
Illegal dumping is a serious and growing problem in Vancouver. Abandoned garbage is not only an eyesore but it impacts our city in many negative ways:
- Increases health risks
Abandoned and decaying garbage attracts rats and other disease-carrying creatures. - Increases environmental risks
Illegal dumping of hazardous waste will contaminate soil and water. - Increases costs
Collecting abandoned garbage costs money which is passed onto to taxpayers. - Encourages more dumping
Abandoned garbage, even small amounts, will become full scale dump sites in only a few days. Allowing garbage to accumulate on vacant lots, in front and backyards and green spaces only makes the problem worse. - Contributes to other illegal activity
By tolerating illegal dumping you send a message to violators that these and other types of non-desirable activities are okay in your neighborhood.
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How Do I Report Illegal Dumping?
There are two ways to report incidents of illegal dumping on public property:
- Call 3-1-1 (or 604.873.7000 from outside Vancouver city limits) or 604.871.6544.
- Complete the on-line Illegal Dumping Report
A City inspector will investigate the complaint and if appropriate, will enforce City by-laws relating to the unlawful dumping, or the accumulation of garbage. In many cases the inspector is able to track down the person responsible for the dumping. The inspector will then take all of or some of the following actions:
- Send the offender a warning letter.
- Give the offender a $100.00 fine (up to a maximum of $2000.00) under the Street and Traffic By-law (No.2849), section 84 or 99.
- Initiate legal action by the City of Vancouver to recoup cost of the clean up.
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What About Garbage Dumped Illegally On Private Property Or Vacant Lots?
Please refer any material left on private property or vacant lots to the Property Use Branch at 604.873.7398.
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Will It Make A Difference?
Absolutely. By reporting all incidents of illegal dumping you not only help to keep your neighborhood clean and safe but ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
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How Do I Dispose Of A Large Item Like A Mattress Or Fridge?
Do not leave mattresses, large appliances, furniture or any other large item in the street or lane. Instead, you should consider these options:
- Donate the item to a charity. Check the yellow pages under “Second-hand dealers” or get a list of charities in your area by calling the Recycling Council of BC's hotline at 604.732.9253.
- Recycle the item. Some items like large appliances can be recycled at the City's Recycling Depot. For more information call 3-1-1 (or 604.873.7000 from outside Vancouver city limits).
- Dispose of the item at the Vancouver Transfer Station or at the Vancouver Landfill in Delta (rates apply).
- Contact a private company to pickup the item if you aren't able to transport it yourself. Check the yellow pages under “Garbage collectors.”
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How Can I Do More?
Besides reporting illegal dumping you can take part in the City's annual clean-up campaign during the month of May. To learn more, go to Keep Vancouver Spectacular.
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