Lynwood To Fine Violators of Illicit Dumping Policy

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As a direct result of having to pick up close to 3,000 tons of large items from local alleys and other outdoor public areas, which have cost the city of Lynwood approximately $330,000 annually, the Lynwood City Council has taken steps to remedy the situation.

Lynwood’s current Bulky Item Illicit Dumping Policy, which simply reminds residents to call the trash hauler when planning to dump a bulky item on trash day, will be given some teeth.

Residents and business owners that fail to comply with the municipal requirement will now be fined.

“The dumping of bulky items has become quite prevalent over the last three to four years,” said Josef Kekula, the Lynwood’s Acting Director of Public Work, in a statement. “The problem existed back then only in the alleys, but now it’s everywhere.”

Lynwood’s Public Works Department along with the Code Enforcement and Business License Divisions, will begin a 30-day grace period on February 1, 2013.

During this time warnings and notices of violation will be sent out to those who break the policy. 

The 30-day grace will also be accompanied with an outreach capmpaign, courtesy of the city of Lynwood and Consolidated Disposal Services, the local trash haul provider.

However, after the grace period, $100 fines will be given to first time offenders, $200 for those caught a second time, and $500 for any third or future violations.

Lynwood residents and businesses that want to throw away large items such as, a piece of furniture or mattress, should call Consolidated Disposal Services to request a pick up.

Residents may ask for up to 5 bulky items a week for pick up. The items must be placed on the sidewalk no later than 6 a.m. on the scheduled pick-up day (Monday or Tuesday). Residents should call 800-298-4898 to make the request for their free pick up.

On the other hand, for businesses or residential apartments of four units or more, there will be a fee attached for the pick up of large items. The amount will range from $25, for one to two items, or $200 for anything eleven to 20 items. Those who fall into this category can schedule pickups by calling 800-298-4898.

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