It starts with a pile of trash on a quiet San Diego street. A neighbor drives by and at first glance, nothing unusual. But up close, it’s more concerning: old electronics, discarded batteries, used motor oil containers, and even a refrigerator lying on its side. The worst part? One item slowly sets a precedent for others, and before you know it the discarded items pile up. This isn’t just litter; it’s illegal dumping, a hidden threat to our environment, public health, and neighborhoods.
More Than Just Trash
Illegal dumping often involves hazardous or bulky waste that can leach toxins and pollute waterways. Batteries contain lithium, lead, and mercury. Electronic waste (e-waste) like computers, TVs, and phones carry heavy metals and flame retardants. Large appliances may contain refrigerants that are harmful to the environment. Even used motor oil, when poured into storm drains or on the ground, can devastate aquatic life.
These hazards don’t just harm wildlife or ecosystems, they impact neighborhoods, reducing property values and costing the County of San Diego thousands in cleanup efforts. Stormwater can wash discarded items into rivers and oceans, spreading pollution far beyond the original dump site.
The Scale of the Problem
So far in 2025 (as of September 22, 2025), volunteers at I Love A Clean San Diego sponsored cleanups have collected approximately 400 pounds of illegally dumped waste, including batteries and e-waste, as well as appliances and oil containers. Illegal dumping is not an isolated issue; it’s a widespread problem that affects communities and natural spaces alike.
Why People Dump
Several factors contribute to illegal dumping:
- Inconvenience: Many residents don’t know where to take old electronics, batteries, or oil filters.
- Cost concerns: Some people assume disposal is expensive or complicated.
- Lack of awareness: People may not realize the environmental and health impacts of their actions.
These barriers often make illegal dumping seem like the easiest option, even though it carries serious consequences.
A Solution: WasteFreeSD.org
WasteFreeSD.org is San Diego County’s one-stop resource for proper disposal of hazardous and bulky waste. Residents can:
- Find local drop-off centers and collection events to assist in the recycling of batteries, e-waste, appliances, and motor oil.
- Access step-by-step instructions for safe disposal.
- Take advantage of free or low-cost recycling programs. (wastefreesd.org)
By using these resources, residents protect their neighborhoods, local wildlife, and waterways—while making illegal dumping less appealing.
How Communities Can Help
Addressing illegal dumping is a community effort:
- Report illegal dumping when you see it
- Participate in neighborhood or county cleanups.
- Spread the word about safe disposal options through WasteFreeSD.org.
- Support local initiatives to improve access to proper disposal and recycling.
Check out our video about illegal dumping here.
