Littering
W. Va. Code § 22-15A-4 — a fine of $100 to $2,500 for up to 100 pounds, plus a cleanup penalty
No one may dump or throw litter on any road, public or private property, or into the waters of the state or within 100 feet of them, except in a proper receptacle.
| Amount | The penalty |
|---|---|
| AmountUp to 100 pounds or 27 cubic feet | The penaltyA misdemeanor, a fine of not less than $100 nor more than $2,500, or community service picking up litter |
| AmountMore than that, under 500 pounds or 216 cubic feet | The penaltyA fine of not less than $2,500 nor more than $5,000, or community service |
| AmountMore than 500 pounds, or commercial litter | The penaltyA fine of not less than $2,500 nor more than $25,000, jail of not more than one year, or both |
Every conviction adds a civil penalty of $200 to $2,000 for cleanup and prosecution, and something identifying the owner found in the litter is evidence against them.
Sources for this section (1)
- W. Va. Code § 22-15A-4 — Unlawful disposal of litter; civil and criminal penalty
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of October 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed West Virginia attorney.