EM proposes steeper penalties to curb illegal dumping
In an effort to conserve the city’s open spaces and ensure orderly growth, Eagle Mountain City is considering an amendment to its Consolidated Fee Schedule that would impose higher fines for illegal dumping and establish penalties for development violations.
Illegal dumping of construction materials, landscaping debris and other waste has been reported in various areas of the city, with particular concern around sensitive sites like the Tickville Wash.
The activity is not only an eyesore but also poses a risk to the local environment.
“Dumping trash in washes, open space or along roadsides can lead to real environmental damage,” said Planning Director Brandon Larsen. “When harmful materials get into the city’s stormwater system, they don’t just disappear. They affect water quality and can cause long-term damage to our natural systems.”
The City’s Planning Commission is reviewing a proposal that would increase the fine for illegal dumping to $1,000 per violation, a significant increase aimed at deterring the behavior.
“We hope the higher penalty sends a clear message that Eagle Mountain takes this seriously,” said Larsen. “This protects our community. When people see dumping happening unchecked, it tends to invite more of the same. We want to break that cycle.”
Illegal dumping isn’t the only issue under scrutiny. The proposal also targets ongoing concerns about development noncompliance.
Some developers have failed to install required privacy fencing around subdivisions, commercial sites or business parks, leaving adjacent properties and neighborhoods with fewer protections and less visual screening than City Code requires.
“Privacy fencing is there to create a buffer between different uses, like between a residential neighborhood and a commercial property,” says Larsen. “When that gets ignored, it affects quality of life for nearby residents.”
Additionally, the amendment outlines fines for developers who do not complete required improvements identified during the site plan approval process. These might include landscaping, parking amenities or other elements essential to the usability and appearance of a project.
While the City already has mechanisms to enforce compliance, the proposed changes would streamline enforcement and provide clearer penalties.
“We’ve run into situations where projects are considered ‘done’ but are missing key features,” said Larsen. “That puts City staff in the position of trying to negotiate completion after the fact. These fines would give us more leverage to ensure things are done right the first time.”
Despite the proposed increases in penalties, City officials emphasized that their first goal is always voluntary compliance and constructive problem-solving.
“We’d always prefer to work things out cooperatively,” Larsen said. “But sometimes we need stronger tools in the toolbox. Ultimately, we all want Eagle Mountain to be clean, safe and developed responsibly.”
Residents who witness illegal dumping or have concerns about incomplete development work are encouraged to report issues to the City.
Community awareness and involvement are key to maintaining high standards.