Dumping unwanted furniture, bagged grass clippings and other trash in the county is illegal, but happens frequently.

Ellis County Public Works Administrator Mike Graf says unless there is a witness to the trash dumping or something in the refuse can be traced back to the offender, it is difficult to prosecute.

Often the refuse is found near the landfill and is likely dumped by people who simply don’t want to pay the disposal fee. Those who are caught can face jail time and/or a fine up to $500.