Illegal Dumping
Report illegal dumping in Surrey, and learn how we enforce the bylaw to keep our streets and lots clean.
Illegal dumping is a serious and growing problem in Surrey. It's not just about making the city look better. It can also have negative effects on the environment and Surrey residents.
When you report illegally dumped garbage, our City representatives will investigate the complaint. If the garbage is on City property, City staff clean up the area.
Call 604-591-4152 to report illegal dumping on City property, or report online.
Garbage dumped illegally on private property and vacant lots
If the garbage is on private property or a vacant lot, we will enforce City bylaws against illegal dumping or accumulated garbage.
Unsightly properties
Properties in the City of Surrey have to be maintained at an acceptable level. Examples of items considered unsightly under the Surrey Property Maintenance and Unsightly Premises Bylaw include:
- Accumulation of junk,
- Discarded materials and garbage,
- Dead landscaping,
- Uncontrolled growth of landscaping, and
- Deterioration of fences, buildings or other structures.
Make an online complaint about an unsightly property or contact us at 604-591-4370.
Have waste to dispose of? Check out Metro Vancouver's Recycling and Disposal Cost Estimator to understand the cost of recycling and disposal before visiting recycling and waste centres.
Negative effects of illegal dumping
Illegal dumping makes up only 0.012 percent of the total annual solid waste generated in the City but can have serious effects on the environment, wildlife habitat and the ability of others to use and enjoy outdoor recreational areas. Illegal dumping also:
- Increases health risks - Abandoned and decaying garbage attracts rats and other disease-carrying creatures.
- Increases environmental risks - Illegal dumping of hazardous waste contaminates soil and water.
- Increases costs - Removing abandoned garbage costs the City money, which is passed on to taxpayers.
- Encourages more dumping - Even small amounts of abandoned garbage can turn into full-scale dumpsites within days.
- Contributes to other illegal activity - Tolerating illegal dumping sends a message to offenders that such activities are acceptable in your neighbourhood.