City Council discusses measures to combat littering and illegal dumping

Frustration over littering and illegal dumping took center stage at the Federal Way Land Use/Transportation Committee meeting on July 7, 2025. Committee members expressed deep concern about the growing problem of trash littering the streets, with one member passionately questioning how to change public behavior regarding waste disposal.

The discussion highlighted the stark contrast between the littered streets of Federal Way and the clean environments of countries like Singapore, the Netherlands, and Japan. One committee member lamented, “We are considered to be the first world country, and it doesn’t look like it when you look at our street.” This sentiment resonated with others, who acknowledged the challenge of educating the public on proper waste disposal.

Environmental services representatives emphasized their ongoing efforts to combat litter through education and outreach, particularly targeting schools where children can influence their parents' behavior. However, they admitted that enforcement remains a significant hurdle. While there are penalties for illegal dumping, catching offenders in the act is difficult, limiting the effectiveness of current laws.

The committee explored potential solutions, including increasing fines and possibly requiring community service for offenders. However, they noted that such measures would require changes at the state level, as current laws restrict their ability to impose stricter penalties.

As the meeting concluded, the committee recognized the need for a multifaceted approach to tackle littering, combining education, enforcement, and community involvement. The ongoing challenge of maintaining clean streets remains a pressing issue for Federal Way, with leaders committed to finding effective solutions.