About Illegal Dumping

Illegal dumping, or "fly dumping," is the dumping of any waste material on public or private property without a permit from CDPH. Illegal dumping endangers public health by creating a breeding ground for mosquitoes that may carry the West Nile Virus, attracts rats, poses hazards to children playing nearby and decreases property values.

Trash that is commonly dumped includes:

• Tires
• Old furniture
• Household garbage
• Construction debris
• Appliances
• Yard waste
• Hazardous waste (generally dumped in drums or barrels)

Report an Illegal Dumping

The Chicago Department of Public Health’s inspectors respond to a variety of citizen complaints for environmental violations, such as odors, air emissions, hazardous materials, oil spills, and illegal dumping.

Please contact 311 to report an environmental complaint.

If you see someone dumping what may be hazardous waste, call 911

In addition, call 911 if dumping is in progress.

Please don't touch anything. You’ve done your part just by calling. The materials or emissions you're reporting could be toxic or harmful. Let our professional inspectors handle the matter.