Santa Cruz County’s increased illegal dumping fines begin today

SANTA CRUZ, Calif. (KION-TV) - Illegal dumping fees across Santa Cruz County have increased as of July 11.

The County of Santa Cruz Department of Community Development and Infrastructure voted to increase the penalties on June 27.

Starting today, the first offense is at $2,500, with the second offense set for a $5,000 fine, and a third offense set at a $10,000 fine.

Before the vote, the penalties were set at $100, $200, and $500, respectively.

“This isn’t just about handing out fines, it’s about valuing our shared spaces, protecting the environment and standing up for the communities impacted by illegal dumping,” said assistant director of special services Carolyn Bruke.

Cameras were also installed at illegal dumping hotspots across Santa Cruz County, which were purchased via funding efforts of the community-based program Pitch-In Santa Cruz.