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Recent complaints regarding illegal dumping prompted officials to issue a reminder about littering laws.
According to a press release from the Kosciusko County sheriff's and health departments, Indiana Code states that "anyone who places or leaves refuse on property of another person, except in a container provided for refuse, commits littering, a Class B infraction." Kosciusko County also provides for an additional ordinance that prohibits the accumulation of garbage and rubbish on property within the county.
Kosciusko County Sheriff Aaron Rovenstine said littering within the county has increased dramatically recently. The issue was brought up at recent Kosciusko County Commissioners meetings, Rovenstine said, and the problem goes beyond people tossing fast food wrappers out a car window.
Apparently, bags of trash are being dumped along roadways and, if any identifying information is located within those bags (i.e., mail), officials can hold that person accountable for littering. However, the property owner is ultimately responsible for keeping the roadway along his property cleaned up, Rovenstine said, which is causing headaches for some people who have been the victims of repeated littering.
Because of the prevalence of littering, county residents are urged to use proper waste receptacles and containers. Individuals also are advised not to dispose of their own refuse in other privately owned waste receptacles and containers.
Anyone with littering complaints should call the health department at 372-2349 or 267-4444.
