Session Six
An overview of the state’s Litter Laws and Effective Enforcement Strategies
Tuesday, November 24 – 9:00am to 10:30am CST
Understanding litter and illegal dumping laws and enforcement challenges is the first step in determining the most effective enforcement strategies. Strategies vary from strengthening local ordinances to using surveillance cameras, hotlines and media campaigns. They all play an important part in reducing litter and illegal dumping. This panel of litter enforcement experts will cover a wide variety of litter enforcement topics.
The Louisiana State Police along with Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries are the two state agencies charged with enforcing the state’s litter laws. Agency representatives will give an overview of the state’s litter laws and enforcement efforts.
The Louisiana Aquatic Litter Alliance, authored the Louisiana Local Government Litter Ordinance Template and Handbook as a tool to help strengthen litter enforcement on a local level. This publication serves as a turnkey, how-to guide with time-tested solutions for developing and implementing a litter control program in municipal and parish governments. This is a “do not miss” for parishes and municipalities who are interested in increasing local litter and illegal dumping enforcement.
Surveillance cameras can be a great enforcement tool to help you crack down on illegal dumping activity, when used correctly. The cameras styles, installation, supervision and maintenance make a big difference in whether or not your program is a success. Learn more about surveillance camera Do’s and Don’ts.
In 2018, the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury conducted a citizen survey as part of the Police Jury’s Strategic Planning Initiative. Survey results identified litter as the second most important concern to residents, behind drainage. The survey results served as a catalyst for the development of a comprehensive litter initiative called “Pick it Up.” The effort focuses on reducing litter by increasing awareness and education; engaging businesses and individuals to clean up; providing programs and resources; and strengthening enforcement efforts. Enforcement efforts include establishing a litter hotline, appointing a litter enforcement officer and creating an on-line citizen reporting tool.