Stop! Dumping garbage on public land is against the law

Public Service Announcement

Yellowknife — March 25, 2026

Dumping garbage, appliances, or construction materials on public land damages the environment, creates safety hazards for wildlife, and is illegal under territorial legislation.

The penalty for illegally discharging contaminants in the Northwest Territories can include a fine of up to $300,000 and imprisonment for up to six months.

Do the right thing:

  • Dispose of waste at approved landfills or in garbage containers on your home lot.
  • Reuse, recycle, or take materials to designated collection points where available.

Protect our land and water today for future generations. We all share the responsibility to dispose of our garbage and recyclables properly.

Visit your community’s website or contact your regional office for more information on correct waste and recyclable material disposal in your area. Learn more about how to report illegal dumping at https://www.gov.nt.ca/ecc/en/report-something

For media requests, please contact:
Dana Bowen
Communications Planning Specialist
Department of Environment and Climate Change
Government of the Northwest Territories
Dana_Bowen@gov.nt.ca