Litter Reduction & Illegal Dumping
Illegal dumping is the unlawful disposal of waste on public or private property rather than at authorized facilities. Common examples include leaving trash, old furniture, appliances, construction debris, or tires on roadsides and vacant lots. The Department of Public Works and Transportation is responsible for removing illegal dumping in the public right-of-way along County-maintained roads. Illegal dumping along roads with a number (e.g., MD 210/Piscataway Highway, US 50, I-495) is addressed by the Maryland Department of Transportation's State Highway Administration (MDOT SHA). Removal of illegal dumping on private property is under the purview of the Department of Inspections, Permits and Enforcement.
Why It’s a Problem
- Environmental Impact: Dumped waste pollutes soil, water, and air, harming local wildlife and ecosystems.
- Community Impact: Illegal dumping lowers property values, attracts vermin, and makes neighborhoods less safe and welcoming.
- Health Risks: Accumulated waste can harbor disease, attract pests, and create hazardous conditions for residents.
How You Can Help
- Report Illegal Dumping: If you witness illegal dumping, report it immediately by using the PGC 311 online form, hotline, or mobile app. Your action helps us respond quickly and keep our community clean.
Beautification
The County's Beautification efforts engage residents, businesses, and organizations in actively playing a role in beautifying and preserving the environment in Prince George's. You can plant trees, install green practices, promote recycling and waste reduction, organize a community clean-up, and more to help!
Litter Reduction and PGCLitterTRAK (DoE)
Help reduce litter and promote sustainability through initiatives such as cleanup events, educational campaigns, and partnerships with community organizations. Use the PGCLitterTRAK to help record our collective litter pick-up efforts!
Litter and Dumping along County-maintained Roads (DPW&T)
The Department of Public Works and Transportation (DPW&T) provides services to remove illegal dumping and litter along County-maintained roads. Roads with a number (e.g., MD 210/Piscataway Highway, US 50, I-495) are handled by the Maryland Department of Transportation's State Highway Administration (MDOT SHA) and must be reported to it.
Litter and Mowing Blitz (DPW&T)
In addition to clearing litter and debris, DPW&T maintains County roads and right-of-ways by mowing medians and roadsides, clearing brush, and maintaining storm drain channels and ponds. Annual blitzes are held to improve the cleanliness of the county's streets and public spaces.
Private Property Concerns (DPIE)
The Department of Permitting, Inspections, and Enforcement (DPIE) enforces private property codes and regulations, including property maintenance, zoning compliance, rental housing inspections, and the resolution of code violations to maintain safe and livable communities.