Marion County Solid Waste has partnered with the Marion County Sheriff’s Office in an effort to reduce littering on local roadways.
To help catch litter offenders, MCSO deputies such as Deputy McQuaig and Deputy Osthed are keeping an eye out for individuals with unsecured loads in a truck or trailer, illegal dumping, or people throwing trash out of a vehicle.
Moments after the above photo was taken, both deputies pulled over a vehicle that was carrying unsecured trash in the back of a truck. Marion County Solid Waste expects the partnership with the sheriff’s office to help keep Marion beautiful by reducing the amount of litter throughout the county.
According to an ordinance that was adopted by the Marion County Board of County Commissioners in July 2022, a first-time violation for dumping litter or junk results in a $150 fine. A second violation leads to a $300 fine, along with 10 days in jail and/or community service as prescribed by the Florida Litter Law.
Anyone committing a third littering violation is subject to a $500 fine, incarceration of at least 10 days (up to 30 days), and/or community service. A fourth or subsequent violation results in another $500 fine, a minimum of 10 days in jail (up to 60 days), and/or community service.
To learn more about Marion County’s Litter Awareness Campaign, visit the Marion County No Horsin’ Around webpage.