About Landfills

A landfill is a site for the disposal of waste materials by burial and is the oldest form of waste treatment. Historically, landfills have been the most common ways to dispose of waste and remains in many places around the world. Many landfills accept uncontaminated soil, green waste, and asphalt loads. Landfills are designed to make sure the waste is isolated from the neighboring environment, such as groundwater, air and rain. It is important to keep waste from surrounding environments to ensure it does not decompose.

The Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery (CalRecycle), along with local enforcement agencies (LEA), regulates the operation of landfills. If facilities do not follow regulations, landfills can harm the environment and public health. Landfills that are not managed correctly can release toxic chemicals in the air and soil, and expose residents to serious health risks.

Facts About Landfills [ English | EspaƱol ]

What We Do

The Solid Waste Management Program conducts investigations of all closed, inactive, illegal, and abandoned landfills.

Facilities

Landfill Facilities
Transfer Stations
Composting Sites

Report a Problem

If you have questions or concerns about landfills, contact the Solid Waste Management Program of the Environmental Health Division at (626) 430-5540. For complaints or to report public health issues, contact the Environmental Health Call Center at (888) 700-9995 or File a Complaint Online.

Contact Us

Monday - Friday
8:00am - 5:00pm

Tel: (626) 430-5540
Fax: (626) 814-2075
Email: swmp@ph.lacounty.gov

County of Los Angeles Public Health
Environmental Health
Solid Waste Management Program for inspection
Solid Waste Permitting & Surveillance Program for permitting
5050 Commerce Drive
Baldwin Park, CA 91706-1423