Illegal dumpers targeted by Fresno County. Here’s what a violation could cost you

Scofflaws dropping old refrigerators, sofas, tree trimmings and toxic substances will face tough new fines and impound fees under new ordinances passed Tuesday by Fresno County supervisors.

The measures target cheaters who decide to dump items on rural roadways, canal banks, and county alleys instead of paying tipping fees at county landfills. Supervisors, who passed the ordinances unanimously in the board session, noted that it’s a chronic problem countywide that costs taxpayers nearly $1 million a year.

It’s hoped the measures “put more teeth in the ordinances,” said Nathan Magsig, board chairman. He added that tougher fines will sting “pretty good.”

In addition to a nominal fine for a small item, such as a plastic cup tossed out the window of a car, the costs increase quickly to $1,000 for a larger amount of trash. A major violation will cost a violator $3,000.

The new ordinances get even more serious for a repeat offender, who could lose their truck in an impound for up to a month, and face big impound fees often costing $100 a day, or more.

Those dumping illegal chemicals and fluids, such as anti-freeze and motor oil, face even more serious hazardous materials violations that involve more severe penalties.

Sheriff John Zanoni, whose deputies will enforce the measures, said his deputies are not be too busy to enforce the ordinances against illegal dumpers, who are often out at night or early in the morning.

The offenses “are a quality of life issue,” he said.