Illegal Dumping Penalties in Pearland
Improper waste disposal isn’t just unsightly—it’s illegal, and carrying the wrong items to the landfill or letting them pile up can result in serious penalties. Here’s what Pearland residents need to know to avoid fines and protect the environment.
State Penalties for Illegal Dumping (Texas Law)
According to the Texas Health & Safety Code § 365.012:
- Class C Misdemeanor: Dumping 5 lbs or less (or under 5 gallons) — Fine up to $500 pearland.elaws.us+4Keep Pearland Beautiful+4LegalClarity+4LegalClarity+6pearlandtx.gov+6FindLaw Codes+6
- Class B Misdemeanor: Dumping 5–500 lbs (or 5–100 cu ft) — Jail up to 180 days, $2,000 fine pearlandtx.gov+1
- Class A Misdemeanor: Dumping 500–1,000 lbs (100–200 cu ft), or commercial dumping over 5 lbs — Up to 1 year in jail, $4,000 fine Municode Library+15pearlandtx.gov+15Gonzalez Law Group+15
- Felony (State Jail): Dumping over 200 lbs or 200 cu ft with commercial intent — 6 months–2 years, up to $10,000 fine. Repeat offenses escalate to a 3rd-degree felony with 2–10 years and up to $10,000 fine. Corporations can face up to $20,000 fines pearlandtx.gov
Local Enforcement in Pearland
- Pearland’s Fire Marshal and Code Enforcement Officers actively investigate and issue citations for illegal dumping on public or private property Municode Library+15pearlandtx.gov+15pearlandtx.gov+15
- Dumping at drop-off sites (like Stella Roberts Recycling Center) when closed is also illegal—punishable by $500–$2,000 fines Keep Pearland Beautiful+1
Why It Matters
- Illegal dumping leads to polluted waterways, fire hazards, pest infestations, and reduced property values in neighborhoods 432yuck.com
- It’s also a burden on taxpayers, as public funds go toward cleanup and enforcement.
Summary Table — Illegal Dumping Penalties
| Offense Size / Type | Class | Penalties |
|---|---|---|
| ≤ 5 lbs / 5 gallons | Class C | Fine up to $500 |
| 5–500 lbs / 5–100 cu ft | Class B | Up to 180 days jail, $2,000 fine |
| 500–1,000 lbs / 100–200 cu ft | Class A | Up to 1 year jail, $4,000 fine |
| Commercial / >200 lbs or cu ft | State Jail Felony | 6 mths–2 yrs, up to $10,000 fine (corporate $20K); escalates on repeat offenses |
How Bubba’s Helps You Avoid Penalties
When in doubt, don’t dump—call Bubba’s Junk Removal. We handle all household, yard, electronic, and construction debris responsibly—no fines, no violations.
We’ll provide:
- Licensed and insured hauling
- Full-service pickup—loading, hauling, disposal
- Eco-friendly options (recycling, donation)
- Flexible scheduling to avoid last-minute issues
Book Proper Junk Disposal Today
Steer clear of fines and legal trouble by choosing safe, legal disposal.
📞 Call now for a free, no-obligation estimate: (281) 699-8409
