JEFFERSON CITY — Illegal dumping – disposing of waste in unauthorized locations- remains a serious problem in communities across the U.S.
Often called “open dumping” or “fly dumping,” it can harm public health, reduce property values, and negatively impact quality of life.
Common items dumped illegally include construction debris, furniture, household appliances, auto parts, medical waste, yard waste, and household hazardous waste.
In June 2025, the EPA updated its “Illegal Dumping Prevention Guidebook”, originally published in 1998.
The guide provides practical strategies communities can use to prevent illegal dumping, along with real-world case studies of successful local initiatives.
Visit https://www.epa.gov/large-scale-residential-demolition/illegal-dumping to download the guide and learn more about preventing illegal dumping and safely disposing of or recycling unwanted materials.