What is Illegal Dumping?

Illegal dumping is a crime with a maximum individual fine of $50,000 and occurs when unwanted waste is disposed of in locations such as vacant or private properties, crown lands, woods, bushes, roadsides, and waterways. It continues to take place in our communities and all across the province of New Brunswick, and residents must take responsibility to monitor and sustain our environment. We all need to take illegal dumping seriously.

Illegal dumping can: 

  • Cause serious health problems associated with the attraction of disease-infected rodents.
  • Cause environmental problems connected with the improper disposal of hazardous waste.
  • Sends out a false message that it is an acceptable thing to do.
  • It detracts from the beautiful, natural environment around us. 

Why do residents resort to illegal dumping? 

Many people resort to illegal dumping to save on fees and/or time and effort. They also perform the crime due to a lack of environmental education, a lack of knowledge concerning proper disposal methods, low fines, and a low risk of getting caught.

Who is responsible for cleaning up these Illegal Dump sites? 

Private property owners are responsible for posting no-dumping signs and for cleaning up their property. In the case of illegal dumping on crown lands, the Province of New Brunswick is required to clean up these illegal dump sites.





Reporting Illegal Dumping

Record the date, time, and location when the incident occurred. Document an accurate description of the violator(s) and of the vehicle that was used, along with the vehicle’s license plate number, write the items that were disposed of and take pictures.

Reporting an unknown Illegal Dump site:

Record the date and time; take GPS coordinates and pictures. The information documented should then be compiled and reported to either of the following:

  1. Contact your local Department of Environment
  2. Contact the New Brunswick Crime Stoppers hotline at: 1-800-222-8477 (1-800-222-TIPS) or online at Crime Stoppers

What types of fines are associated with Illegal Dumping if a person(s) is caught and charged? 

Provincial laws provided fines and or jail time for this crime. Any person(s) caught and charged with illegal dumping are subject to a fine of $500.00. The fines can go up to as much as $50,000.00 for individuals. Any company(s) caught performing this crime can be charged with fines ranging from $1,000.00 to 1 million dollars.



Help Stop Illegal Dumping

You can take action by:

  • Participating in local and rural area cleanups
  • Reporting newly found illegal dump sites or person(s) seen illegally dumping
  • Letting others know the effects and alternatives of illegal dumping. 
  • Practicing the 4Rs: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Rethink.

Everyone must take responsibility and become ambassadors for the prevention of illegal dumping.

Where can large items be disposed of?

  • Ensure you are properly disposing of your waste. 
  • Large unwanted items can be placed at your curb to be collected by your local garbage collector. Contact the local authorities or solid waste services to verify when spring, summer, and fall cleanups are being held in your area. 
  • Consider donating your used items to a good cause such as the Salvation Army, Red Cross, Diabetes Association, second-hand stores, etc. 
  • Transport your unwanted items to a transfer station or landfill near you.