Oakland doubling fines to $5,000, deploying drones as it cracks down on illegal dumping

""The reality is that we need to enforce the law," Gallo said. Enforcing the law is exactly what the Oakland city council intends to do. On Tuesday, the board voted unanimously to double the fine for illegal dumping to $5,000."

""The same people throw away the garbage every day. Same people. And, you know, I have a lot of frustration," said Ricardo Vindiola, highlighting the ongoing issue of repeat offenders in illegal dumping."

""Whenever I walk, I always see trash everywhere," said Daniela Morales. For her, illegal dumping isn't just about the trash that's scattered on city streets. It's about taking pride in where you live."

""It is restoring that lost sense of pride," Gallo says, referring to the city's efforts to combat illegal dumping and improve the community's environment."

Oakland is facing a crisis with illegal dumping, receiving about 25,000 calls this year. The city council has unanimously voted to double fines for illegal dumping to $5,000, which will now be linked to the license plates of offenders. Residents express frustration over the persistent trash problem, emphasizing the impact on community pride. Additionally, a pilot program will utilize AI drone technology to monitor illegal dumping in real time, aiming to restore pride in the community and keep streets clean.

Read at ABC7 San Francisco