By Jeff Devine, Dale County Chronicle
The Ozark Police Department is reminding residents that littering is more than just an eyesore; it is a criminal offense under Alabama law, and officers will be stepping up enforcement of those laws with penalties that can be costly.
In a social media post accompanied by an informational graphic, the department announced that officers will be increasing enforcement of Alabama’s littering laws in an effort to help keep Ozark clean.
“With growing public concern about the cleanliness of our community, we want to remind everyone of the legal consequences of littering. Our officers will be increasing enforcement of these laws to ensure that we keep our city as beautiful as possible,” the department said.
The campaign highlights two Alabama laws aimed at reducing litter across the state.
Under Alabama Code § 32-5A-60, it is illegal for a driver or passenger to throw, drop, or deposit litter or other objects from a motor vehicle onto any highway, roadway, street, right-of-way, or adjacent public or private property. Violations may result in criminal charges, monetary fines, community service, and additional penalties for repeat offenders.
The department also cited Alabama Code § 13A-7-29, which defines criminal littering as knowingly disposing of litter on public or private property without permission or in a manner not authorized by law.
Examples of litter include beverage containers, fast food wrappers, cigarette butts, garbage bags, household trash, construction debris, and other waste materials.
According to the department, criminal littering is a Class B misdemeanor. A first offense may carry fines of up to $500, while repeat offenders may face increased penalties. Courts may also order mandatory community service, including roadside litter cleanup.
The department emphasized that littering has consequences beyond breaking the law. Discarded trash pollutes waterways, harms wildlife, creates traffic hazards, reduces community pride, and increases cleanup costs that are ultimately paid by taxpayers, the announcement says.
As part of its public awareness campaign, the Ozark Police Department encourages residents to keep a trash bag in their vehicle, secure loads before traveling, properly dispose of waste, and report illegal dumping when appropriate.
The department’s message concludes with a simple reminder:
“Trash belongs in the bin, not on the road.”
Officials say keeping Ozark clean is a shared responsibility and encourage everyone to do their part to help maintain a safer, cleaner, and more beautiful community.
Below is an informational graphic shared by the Ozark Police Department via social media:
