Litter Control

ILLEGAL DUMPING AND LITTER

Litter is a significant environmental and public safety concern that affects everyone in our community. While most people recognize litter as a serious problem, careless disposal of trash continues to harm people, wildlife and natural resources. Litter damages waterways, creates health and fire hazards, increases cleanup costs and negatively impacts the appearance and pride of our communities.

Preventing litter is a shared responsibility. Every resident, visitor and business can play a role in keeping Jefferson County clean and safe.

EFFECTS OF LITTER

Litter can cause a wide range of problems throughout our communities, including:

• ENVIRONMENTAL DAMAGE:
  Trash discarded in streets, parks and open areas can enter stormwater systems and flow into rivers and creeks, harming wildlife and water quality.
• INCREASED COSTS:
  Cleanup efforts require public resources, costing taxpayers time and money.
• PUBLIC HEALTH RISKS:
  Litter attracts vermin and can harbor bacteria. Items such as broken glass, needles and sharp objects pose serious hazards.
• FIRE HAZARDS:
  Accumulated debris and improperly discarded cigarette materials increase the risk of fires.
• COMMUNITY IMPACT:
  Litter detracts from the appearance of neighborhoods and public spaces and can encourage additional dumping.

OHIO LITTER LAWS

Under Ohio law, litter includes any trash or debris that is thrown, dropped or dumped on public property, private property not owned by the individual or into Ohio waterways. Littering is prohibited regardless of intent and is considered a serious offense. Violations may result in fines of up to $500 and up to 60 days in jail.

Relevant Ohio Revised Code sections include:

• Littering and Illegal Dumping – ORC 3767.32
• Littering from a Motor Vehicle – ORC 4511.82
• Littering from a Watercraft – ORC 1547.49
• Unsecured Load – ORC 4513.31

PREVENTION AND COLLECTION

Litter prevention begins with civic pride and community involvement. By working together, residents, local leaders and organizations can reduce illegal dumping and promote responsible behavior throughout Jefferson County.

The Jefferson County Ohio Sheriff’s Office works in partnership with community leaders, elected officials and local organizations to address littering through education, outreach and enforcement. These efforts focus on understanding littering behavior, supporting prevention initiatives and improving community awareness.

Community Prevention Efforts Include:

• Studying when and where littering occurs
• Providing trash and recycling containers for community and sporting events
• Promoting public awareness campaigns focused on civic pride and personal responsibility
• Coordinating with local agencies and organizations that share responsibility for environmental protection

HOW YOU CAN HELP PREVENT LITTER

Simple actions make a meaningful difference:

• Make a personal commitment not to litter.
• Lead by example by picking up litter and disposing of it properly.
• Use trash receptacles correctly and avoid overfilling.
• Never sweep leaves, grass or debris into streets or storm drains.
• Sweep sidewalks and driveways instead of washing debris into drains.
• If trash cans are not available, take waste with you and dispose of it properly.

LITTER FREE COMMUNITY EVENTS

Community days, festivals and public gatherings provide an opportunity to promote litter free habits. These events focus on education and awareness while encouraging attendees to take responsibility for keeping public spaces clean.