Some extra cash in your pocket and cleaner streets in your city? Sign us up!
NYC’s Department of Sanitation has just announced multiple new “bounty programs,” and if you’ve seen your fair share of litterers in your day, you may want to listen up.
The program provides participants with the chance to earn large cash rewards in exchange for reporting instances of illegal dumping on NYC streets.
💰 How to Participate
- Submit a record or video showing the illegal dumping
- Include the driver’s license plate and location of the incident
- If the ticket is challenged, be prepared to attend the OATH hearing
💸 How Much Will You Earn?
Participants in the DSNY bounty programs are eligible to receive a significant cash reward.
- Reward amount: You can receive 50% of the fine or civil penalty that the City collects from the violator
- Potential earnings: Since fines for illegal dumping start at $4,000 for a first offense, the reward for the tipster could be massive. The maximum penalty can be up to $18,000 for the vehicle owner, meaning a potential payout of up to $9,000
- Collection condition: The reward is only paid out after the violator pleads guilty or is found liable and the fine is collected by the City
These programs promise cleaner streets and benefits for all. New York City Department of Sanitation Commissioner Javier Lojan said:
Too often, crooked contractors steal our public space by dumping materials in streets, lots and sidewalks that they perceive to be out of the way.
Not all trash is treated equally: the Department of Sanitation says illegal dumping means enough garbage to fill a bathtub, not just a stray wrapper or can. It also must include a vehicle.
Whether your motives are reporting your not-so-favorite neighbor, the community improvement, cashing in on the financial perks, enjoying cleaner streets, or a mix of everything, this deal has something for everyone.
For more information, visit the City Of New York’s official website.