Alberta plans to introduce legislation this fall that would raise fines for illegal dumping and increase provincial oversight of higher-risk waste facilities. Individuals could face fines of $10,000 to $100,000, while corporations could be fined $100,000 to $1 million. The maximum penalties would double those currently on the books, and individuals who fail to comply could face jail terms of 30 days to six months. In extreme cases, courts could impose up to six months in jail if the legislation passes.

Premier Danielle Smith said Wednesday that people are increasingly leaving garbage on roadways, farms, private property and public land, forcing others to clean it up. The province says illegal dumping causes environmental damage and leaves communities, landowners and taxpayers with cleanup bills. Smith said municipal cleanup can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars a year, with expenses passed on to residents and taxpayers.

“Illegal dumping damages our environment, violates private property and leaves Albertans paying for someone else’s mess. Waste must be disposed of responsibly,” Smith said in a news release. “We’re cracking down so those who choose to break the law face tougher penalties and serious consequences.” She also said, “Just think about what it means to trespass onto private property and leave garbage on someone else’s farm. “That’s someone’s livelihood. It’s someone family legacy.” Smith said light fines have often faced perpetrators and the legislation would reverse that.

Smith reported that Calgary received 30,000 complaints about illegal dumping on municipal property last year, but issued 165 tickets and three fines. Edmonton logged more than 600 complaints over five years about dumping on private property and issued 240 tickets. “Something is clearly going on here,” she said. “By being more involved in this, we’re going to be monitoring these numbers.” Public Safety Minister Mike Ellis said he had made the issue a priority for peace officers.

Higher-risk facilities handling large volumes of waste or storing it for longer periods would need provincial registration and would face additional operating requirements. Environment and Protected Areas Minister Grant Hunter said the measures would protect the environment, strengthen communities and support private property owners. Municipal Affairs Minister Dan Williams said the penalties were about respect for property, taxpayers and neighbours working to keep communities clean.

The government hopes tougher rules will reduce dumping incidents and municipal costs. Alberta lawmakers are scheduled to return to the legislature Oct. 27, a week after a provincial referendum with 10 ballot questions, including one on separation. In Calgary, fire crews are battling a landfill fire at Ecco Recycling; the city said the blaze remains contained and crews are working toward full extinguishment.

Based on reporting by CTV News Calgary and Global News Edmonton.