02/27/2026
PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT
Rancho Viejo Police Department
Illegal Dumping Is a Crime in Texas
The Rancho Viejo Police Department reminds all residents that illegal dumping is a criminal offense under Texas law. Dumping trash, furniture, appliances, construction debris, tires, or other waste in unauthorized locations damages our environment, creates public health hazards, and negatively impacts property values.
🚫 What Is Illegal Dumping?
Under Texas Health and Safety Code § 365.012, a person commits an offense if they dispose of litter or solid waste at a location that is not an approved solid waste site.
This includes, but is not limited to:
• Roadsides and highways
• Vacant lots
• Private property without the owner’s consent
• Public parks or waterways
• Apartment and condominium complex dumpsters when the individual does not reside at that property or does not have authorization to use the dumpster
• Any location not permitted for waste disposal
Unauthorized use of a private dumpster — including those belonging to apartment or condominium complexes — may constitute illegal dumping under Texas law.
Illegal dumping applies to both residential and commercial waste.
⚖️ Criminal Penalties Under Texas Law
Penalties are determined by the amount of waste unlawfully disposed and whether the act was committed for commercial purposes.
Non-Commercial Dumping
• Class C Misdemeanor – 5 pounds or less
Fine up to $500
• Class B Misdemeanor – More than 5 pounds up to 500 pounds
Fine up to $2,000 and/or up to 180 days in jail
• Class A Misdemeanor – More than 500 pounds up to 1,000 pounds
Fine up to $4,000 and/or up to 1 year in jail
• State Jail Felony – 1,000 pounds or more
Fine up to $10,000 and/or 180 days to 2 years in a state jail facility
Commercial Dumping
Enhanced penalties may apply when waste is disposed of for commercial purposes.
Repeat offenders are subject to increased penalties. Vehicles used in the commission of the offense may also be subject to seizure.
🚓 Report Illegal Dumping
If you witness illegal dumping:
• Do not approach the individual(s).
• Safely document details such as location, date, time, and vehicle description.
• Contact the Rancho Viejo Police Department non-emergency line at 956-350-4093 to report the incident.
Illegal dumping is not merely littering — it is a criminal offense under Texas law. Residents are encouraged to dispose of waste properly at authorized facilities to help keep our community clean, safe, and beautiful.
