Report illegal dumping
To keep Lakewood clean and attractive, the city encourages residents to report anyone dumping in alleys and parkways.
It’s a violation of the law, and the city will pursue illegal dumpers. Valuable staff time and resources spent on illegal dumping enforcement could be used for more serious crime and health issues.
Please help by sharing this information with friends and neighbors, including the best options for dealing with unwanted materials or items.
It's illegal
Don't dump trash, hazardous waste, medical and human waste, construction debris, yard waste or bulky items in unauthorized locations such as:
- Streets
- Alleys
- Vacant lots
- Parks
- Storm drains
- Sewer system
- Any refuse cart, bin or container belonging to another resident or business
If you see dumping in action
- Get the license plate number and description of the perpetrators and vehicle.
- Note the day, time, location and type of materials dumped.
- Call the Lakewood Sheriff’s Station business line at 562-623-3500 to provide the information.
To report material that’s already been dumped
Better options to get rid of large bulky items
Free bulky item pickup
Lakewood’s trash collection contractor, EDCO, offers bulky item pickup for large or awkward household items, such as mattresses, water heaters, sofas and chairs.
Single-family residences may request up to six free bulky item collections each year, with up to six items per scheduled collection.
Apartment and condo residents do not qualify for the city’s free bulky item pickup program for single-family homes. Contact your property manager to ask about bulky item disposal options available for your complex.
Apartment and condo residents may also take mattresses and other bulky items, for a fee, to EDCO’s transfer station in Signal Hill. Visit EDCO’s website for details.
Donate to charities
Before scheduling a pickup, consider donating usable items to a charity that offers pickup service.
There are numerous local shelters, nonprofits, repair shops and thrift stores that may be willing to take unwanted household items.
Drop off e-waste items
E-waste, such as TVs and computer equipment, can also be disposed of for free through a Bulky Item Pickup or at EDCO’s transfer station at 2755 California Ave., Signal Hill on select Saturdays of each month from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Hazardous waste like paint, oil and household chemicals can also be dropped off at EDCO’s transfer station.E-waste and hazardous waste should not be placed in your regular trash.
Learn more about disposing of these items.
The County of Los Angeles also holds waste tire collection events for residents to recycle their tires. Call 1-888-CLEAN-LA for information.