PSA Regarding Environmental Hazards Associated with Fill Dirt

Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll is sounding the alarm on a growing environmental threat to the health of local residents: contaminated soil disguised as "clean fill." The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) warns that seemingly harmless "free fill" or "free clean dirt" advertised on social media or online classifieds may contain harmful contaminants or regulated solid waste.

The "Dirty Dirt" legislation, which took effect on July 5, 2022, requires businesses engaged in soil and fill recycling services to register with the NJDEP. Residents receiving soil or fill are advised to request information on the material's origin and analytical testing results to ensure it meets residential soil remediation standards.

Be vigilant for signs of illegal dumpings, such as growing piles of dirt or debris on local properties or frequent dump truck visits to secluded areas. To report illegal dumping, contact the NJDEP at 1-877-WARN-DEP, the Morris County Division of Public Health Environmental Services at 973-631-5486, or the Environmental Crimes Unit of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office at 973-285-6200. For more information on the dangers of "dirty fill," visit https://www.nj.gov/dep/guardyourbackyard. Anonymous tips are welcome.