Littering
Fla. Stat. 403.413 — a $150 civil penalty for a little, a felony for a lot
Unless a law or permit allows it, no one may dump litter in any manner or amount on public or private land, in the state's waters, or in the other places the section lists. Dumping raw human waste from a train, aircraft, motor vehicle or vessel is forbidden too.
Who handles this in Florida: The Florida Bar Lawyer Referral Service; and legal aid programs and the state offices, listed in the Florida directory.
| How much | What it is |
|---|---|
| How muchUp to 15 pounds or 27 cubic feet, not commercial | What it isA noncriminal infraction with a civil penalty of $150 |
| How muchOver that, up to 500 pounds or 100 cubic feet, not commercial | What it isMisdemeanor of the first degree, with litter pickup or other community service |
| How muchOver 500 pounds or 100 cubic feet, any commercial amount, or hazardous waste | What it isFelony of the third degree, and the vehicle or vessel used can be forfeited |
A misdemeanor of the first degree carries up to 1 year in jail and a fine of up to $1,000, and a felony of the third degree up to 5 years and $5,000.
Releasing balloons is treated as dumping litter under the section, except for a child 6 or younger. Whether a particular citation fits is a question for a licensed Florida attorney.
Sources for this section (3)
- Fla. Stat. 403.413 — Florida Litter Law
- Fla. Stat. 775.082 — Penalties; applicability of sentencing structures
- Fla. Stat. 775.083 — Fines
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of September 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed Florida attorney.