Combating illegal dumping in Santa Cruz County

The Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors approved a plan to combat illegal dumping in rural areas of the county.

According to the Board of Supervisors, illegal dumping is a top concern for residents and negatively impacts rivers and the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.

The plan, which establishes a penalty process, was approved by the board in a 4-to-1 vote. Fines start at $100 and violators have to pick up the cleanup costs too. Serious violations may also result in criminal penalties.