From Abandoned Furniture to Construction Debris, Volusia County Takes on Illegal Dumping

Posted On: August 24, 2026

An abandoned couch along a roadway or a pile of debris dumped in the woods may seem like little more than an eyesore, drawing a disapproving shake of the head from those who pass by. For Volusia County, however, it can become an illegal dumping investigation aimed at addressing the violation and removing the material.

Volusia County Solid Waste compliance officers respond to illegal dumping complaints countywide, investigating cases in both unincorporated Volusia County and within municipal boundaries. Their efforts help keep discarded waste from becoming a lasting problem for neighborhoods, roadways, and natural areas.

When officers respond to a dump site, they document what was left behind and look for evidence that could help identify where the material came from and who may be responsible. That can include examining discarded materials for identifying information, reviewing available photos or video, speaking with witnesses, and following other leads. What someone leaves behind can sometimes provide officers with the information they need to hold the responsible party accountable.

In 2025, Volusia County investigated 1,774 illegal dumping complaints and helped get more than 62 tons of illegally dumped material removed, whether through County cleanup efforts or enforcement requiring those responsible to address the violation. So far in 2026, compliance officers have investigated 1,760 complaints, with more than 100 tons of material removed.

The materials officers encounter include household garbage, furniture, appliances, tires, construction debris, yard waste, and other discarded items. While the immediate impact may be unsightly, the consequences can extend well beyond appearances. Illegal dumping can affect wildlife and natural areas, threaten water resources, create roadside hazards, and obstruct drainage systems.

Residents can be an important part of helping the County identify and address illegal dumping. Anyone who witnesses suspected illegal dumping should never approach or confront those involved. Instead, from a safe location, residents should try to note as much information as possible, including the date, time, and location; a description of the person or people involved; and the make, model, color, and license plate number of any vehicle. Photos or videos can also provide valuable information when they can be taken safely.

Preventing illegal dumping also starts with knowing how and where to dispose of unwanted materials properly. Volusia County provides disposal options at the West Volusia Transfer Station and Tomoka Landfill for many commonly discarded items, including household garbage, bulky items, tires, and household hazardous waste. These options provide residents with alternatives to leaving unwanted materials along roadways, on vacant property, or in other unauthorized locations.

More information about illegal dumping, as well as how to report suspected illegal dumping activity, is available at www.volusia.gov/illegaldumping.