City Council Adopts New Littering and Illegal Dumping Penalties to Help Keep Tacoma Clean, Safe and Beautiful

The Tacoma City Council has approved new penalties for littering and illegal dumping, reflecting a commitment to enhancing the health and safety of the community. Deputy Mayor John Hines led these code updates in response to resident feedback regarding the negative impact of litter on public spaces and the environment. The revised regulations adopt Washington state's definitions for dangerous litter, imposing a Class 1 civil infraction for violations involving hazardous items like glass and nails. The tiered penalty system categorizes littering based on volume, removing criminal penalties for minor offenses while escalating severe illegal dumping to gross misdemeanors. Council members highlighted the significance of public education and community engagement in reducing litter throughout Tacoma.

The changes demonstrate the city's dedication to fostering pride in neighborhoods while holding violators accountable for their actions. Tacoma encourages residents to report littering through the Tacoma FIRST 311 system, reinforcing community involvement in maintaining cleanliness. These proactive measures aim to ensure a cleaner, safer, and more beautiful Tacoma for years to come.