The Washoe County Sheriff’s Office, in partnership with Keep Truckee Meadows Beautiful (KTMB) and Waste Management, reminds residents that dumping trash, appliances, cars or any other item in the desert is illegal and those responsible are risking legal action if caught.

Working in partnership with the entire community, the sheriff’s office has dedicated a phone line, (775) 329-DUMP, for residents to report illegal dump sites in Washoe County. This number is a direct line to the Sheriff’s Office where information is gathered and tracked to identify the most common dump sites in order to patrol those locations.

There are serious consequences if caught illegally dumping waste in Washoe County.

A business convicted of illegal dumping risks revocation of its business license (NRS 444.630) and any person found illegal dumping (first offense) will pay a minimum civil penalty of $500 to $5000 fine (NRS 444.635). These consequences are far greater than the cost of a trip to the landfill.

The sheriff’s office encourages residents to utilize the free dump days for unwanted household appliances and furniture, Oct. 3-4 at the transfer station on Commercial Row in Reno.

For more information regarding illegal dumping, contact KTMB: www.KTMB.org.

For more information on the free dump days, contact Waste Management: www.wm.com.