News release

Province To Crack Down on Illegal Dumping

Natural Resources (to July 2018)

The province is increasing surveillance at illegal dumping sites in an effort to reduce the amount of dangerous and unsightly garbage and debris on Crown land.

In many cases, illegal dumps on Crown land contain hazardous materials that can be harmful to the environment, wildlife and people who come in contact with the sites. The clean-up of these materials can often be costly and time-consuming.

"Illegal dumping on Crown land has always been an issue, but it appears to be occurring more frequently in recent years," said Natural Resources Minister John MacDonell. "This is an offence that could easily be avoided by disposing of items in a routine municipal waste collection, bringing them to a municipal landfill, or by recycling or composting."

The Department of Natural Resources will continue to educate the public about legal garbage disposal methods. The department will also install hidden video cameras to collect evidence of anyone involved in illegal dumping on Crown land. Under the Crown Land Act, the offence can result in a fine of up to $2,000, six months in jail, or both.

Nova Scotians are asked to help discourage illegal dumping by reporting incidents to local Department of Natural Resources offices during regular business hours. After hours, on weekends and holidays, call toll free 1-800-565-2224.