Battle Against Illegal Dumping Ramps Up

Pasadena Public Works officials this week reported significant progress in combating illegal dumping across the city, reporting the reduction of found abandoned items from 6,000 tons annually to approximately 1,000 tons, which they attributed to through enhanced enforcement and education campaigns.

The update came during a budget presentation to the Municipal Services Committee on May 13, where officials outlined ongoing challenges with illegally discarded furniture, appliances, and other bulky waste.

“Our numbers are so low compared to any other municipality. It’s unbelievable, to be honest with you,” said Thanos Gauthier, administrator for Resource Recovery & Recycling, during the committee meeting. “We do continue to sweep the areas. We literally have scheduled bulky items and abandoned item crews.”

Despite progress, officials acknowledged persistent issues with illegal dumping, particularly around multifamily properties where 50-60% of abandoned items originate.

Public Works maintains dedicated crews that patrol Monday through Friday to address the problem, with “almost 90% of the employees on that detail” being Pasadena residents themselves, department officials noted.

The department’s “Call Before You Throw” education and outreach initiative has been instrumental in driving down illegal dumping rates, the officials said.

Information about proper disposal is regularly featured in the city’s Focus publication quarterly and on its website.

City officials have struggled to hold franchise waste haulers accountable, city staff reported.

Greg de Vinck, Director of Public Works, described illegal dumping as a “never ending problem” that presents enforcement challenges.

“Sometimes it’s specific properties. They tend to be multifamily when a tenant moves out and they just get rid of their stuff on the sidewalk,” Devin explained.

Public Works officials cited the City Service Center mobile app as particularly effective in addressing abandoned items quickly. Councilmembers noted the department’s responsiveness to reports submitted through the app.