Illegal dumping is when people leave unwanted trash, furniture, vehicles, renovation debris, or hazardous waste in places it doesn't belong — sidewalks, streets, parks, creek beds, freeway off-ramps, or vacant lots. This practice:

  • Creates unsightly and unsafe conditions in neighborhoods
  • Harms the environment, waterways, and wildlife
  • Attracts more waste and increases pollution
  • Costs local governments time and money to clean up

Every resident and business can help keep Alameda County clean by using proper disposal methods and reporting illegal dumping when they see it.

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Reuse, Recycle, Repair, and Dispose Responsibly

Before throwing things away, consider whether items can be reused to extend their life and keep them out of landfill.

  • Donate gently used furniture, appliances, or household items to local charities
  • Sell or give away items via online marketplaces, neighborhood groups, or platforms like Buy Nothing and Nextdoor
  • Repair broken objects using resources like iFixit or local repair cafes

When items can't be reused, dispose of them properly. Leaving items on the curb outside of a scheduled pickup creates safety hazards, blocks sidewalks, and attracts more illegal dumping. Items left out can be damaged by weather, spread litter, or attract pests.

Need help? Check the RE:Source guide to find out where to recycle, reuse, repair, or responsibly dispose near you.

Curbside Bulky Pickup Service

Many items that people illegally dump — such as old furniture, appliances, mattresses, tires, renovation debris, and bulky waste — can be disposed of responsibly through your jurisdiction's bulky waste pickup program.

  • Single-family homes: In Alameda County, single-family residents have at least one annual curbside bulky pickup included with service. Many cities offer additional free or fee-based pickups.
  • Multi-family properties: Property managers and landlords usually schedule pickups and notify tenants. Some cities allow tenants to make the appointment directly.
  • Businesses: Contact your hauler to arrange a debris box or special pickup.
Contact Your Waste Hauler

Note: In most cases, items set out for bulky-waste pickup will be landfilled or recycled. If items are in good, usable condition, try to rehome them first through neighborhood networks or exchanges, or visit RE:Source for more options.

Transfer Stations and Drop-Off Centers

Bulky items can be self-hauled to a transfer station or landfill. Fees vary by facility and by what items are dropped off. Find a local transfer station or landfill on RE:Source.

Construction and Demolition Debris

Residents doing DIY home renovations should contact their hauler for C&D or debris box service for materials like drywall, scrap metal, bathroom fixtures, tile, roofing, doors, bricks, carpet, old cabinets, and insulation.

Some businesses specialize in reselling donated leftover building materials that are in good condition — a great way to keep usable materials out of the waste stream.

Contract Responsible Businesses

When hiring construction, landscaping, or hauling companies, ensure they follow proper waste disposal rules. Require proof of legal disposal from contractors working on your property.

Report Illegal Dumping

If you see trash or debris illegally dumped on public property, report it so the responsible agency can investigate and clean it up promptly. Reporting options vary by city or unincorporated area.

  • SeeClickFix / 311 / City Reporting Apps — Many cities allow reporting illegal dumping through SeeClickFix or the 311 Mobile app. For unincorporated areas, report dumping and roadway hazards via ACPWA's Mobile Citizen App or online portal.
  • RE:Source Curbside Information — Use RE:Source's Curbside Service Information to determine who to contact to report illegal dumping, or select your city from the main Curbside Services page for full details.
  • CalTrans (State Freeways) — Dumping along freeways and off-ramps should be reported to CalTrans with the situation type set to "Litter – Trash & Debris."
  • Railroad Right-of-Way — Report dumped items on railroad property to Union Pacific Railroad or via their hotline: 1-888-877-7267.
  • CalRecycle GeoMap — CalRecycle's GeoMap helps find local resources for reporting illegal dumping in California.

Hazardous or Special Materials

Tip: Including a photo, exact location, and date/time helps agencies respond faster and may support enforcement actions.

Other Resources