What You Need to Know About Littering Laws and Fines in Kentucky

Can you be fined for littering in Kentucky? Yes, you litter-ally can! Littering on public property, including streets, sidewalks, and parks, is illegal and can result in trash-ic fines. We have everything you need to know to trash-form those bad habits.

You’d think in 2025, littering would be a thing of the past, but sadly, that’s not the case. We live near a busy street and pick up trash in our yard daily. What if I told you that tossing something out of your window could get you fined, and multiple offenses could land you in deep trouble? Don’t be that person. Let’s all do our part to keep our community clean!

ATTENTION NEW KENTUCKY DRIVERS

This is a perfect teachable moment for new drivers in Kentucky. You might not think littering is a big deal, but tossing something out of your window could earn you a fine. And multiple offenses can lead to serious trouble. Let’s do our part to keep the roads and our communities clean. Don't learn this lesson the hard way!

KENTUCKY LITTERING LAW

Although tossing something out the window may seem minor, it's important to remember that it can carry fines and legal consequences in Kentucky. You don't want to be that person!

According to Kentucky.gov, Kentucky's criminal littering statute (KRS 433.753), outlines penalties and enforcement actions related to littering from a motor vehicle.

Criminal Liability for Littering from a Vehicle:

If any paper, waste material, litter, or refuse is thrown or dropped from a motor vehicle, the driver of that vehicle is automatically presumed guilty of littering.

Enforcement Duty:

Various law enforcement officers, including those from the Kentucky State Police, county sheriffs, city police, and solid waste coordinators, are responsible for enforcing littering laws.

Rewards for Information:

Local governments (cities or counties) offer rewards for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of a person, firm, or corporation responsible for committing criminal littering.

Fines:

Littering is a Class A misdemeanor, which could result in a $500 fine and/or 12 months in jail.

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NEW ORDINANCE FOR UNSOLICITED MATERIALS IN DAVIESS COUNTY

Effective July 1st, 2025, unsolicited written materials cannot be thrown on driveways, ditches, or front lawns in Daviess County. Instead, periodicals like newspapers or magazines should be placed on the front porch, through mail slots, or between an exterior and interior door. Find out more HERE.

To report illegal dumping and littering in Daviess County, contact the Solid Waste Coordinator at 270-229-4484.

It's always best to properly dispose of trash and avoid these penalties! And, save yourself some embarrassment.