Illegal dumping is becoming a problem in Nolan County communities; it is an insult to the citizens, raises significant concerns regarding public health and safety, property values, and the quality of life. In response to this growing problem, “Don’t mess with Nolan County” is the message Sheriff Warren is determined to get across.

Often referred to as “open dumping,” “fly dumping,” “midnight dumping,” or “wildcat dumping,” whichever way you want to put it, it’s Illegal.

Illegal dumping is the disposal of waste from vehicles late at night in an unpermitted area, typically very rural and not well traveled, or areas where there is a good line of sight in both directions. Recently, this office has received numerous reports of illegal dumping in such areas, and as a result, deputies and investigators alike have been working diligently on finding those responsible.

Although difficult to profile a “typical” illegal dumper, Investigations have concluded that approximately 80% of the dumping appears to be by automobile repair or tire shops, construction, demolition, remodeling, roofing, and landscaping contractors, local residents, and do-it-yourselfers. Materials dumped are primarily nonhazardous, and typically consist of residential, construction and demolition waste that is dumped to avoid either disposal fees or the time and effort required for proper disposal.

It is important for the public to get involved not only because of the health risks associated with illegal dumping, but also because of the costs associated with the continuous clearing of illegally dumped waste materials. These costs may be passed along to the citizens in the form of higher service fees or property taxes. If not addressed, illegal dumping often will attract more waste, potentially including hazardous waste such as asbestos, household chemicals and paints, automotive fluids, and commercial or industrial waste.

In an effort to combat this growing problem, Sheriff Warren is encouraging citizens in the community to call the office at (325) 235-5471, and report illegal dumping. If possible, provide a vehicle description, license plate number and description or names of the person(s) involved. There is no excuse for illegal dumping as there are several methods for proper disposal of waste materials.

For citizens on Sweetwater Water supply, there are two locations where materials can be taken and disposed of properly free of charge.

The City of Sweetwater landfill, located at 3000 West Alabama Avenue is open daily Monday through Friday from 8AM to 12PM, and on Saturdays from 10AM to 2PM. For more information, call (325) 235-2063.

The Sweetwater Recycling Center, located at 807 West Broadway Street is open daily Monday through Friday from 10AM to 6PM, and on Saturdays from 10AM to 2PM. For more information, call (325) 235-9973

For citizens who reside within, not to exceed a 1 mile radius outside of the Sweetwater city limits, or are on Bitter Creek Water supply, a “roll-out-service” is offered. This service consists of a 95 gallon roll-out container that is delivered to your property, and picked up on scheduled days. If your property exceeds this radius, a dump permit may be purchased at City Hall; the current rate for the permit is $6.95 per cubic yard. For more information, call (325) 236-6313.