How2Day: Traffic Laws on Littering in South Carolina

It's illegal to throw trash from a vehicle in South Carolina. Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
Litter is an eyesore to communities, damages waterways and endangers wildlife. As a result, states like South Carolina are getting tough on litterbugs by creating laws to combat littering and illegal dumping. There are three laws in South Carolina relating specifically to littering; one of those laws specifically addresses littering from a vehicle: South Carolina's Section 16-11-700.

In South Carolina trash must be placed in public designated waste containers or private garbage cans. geste ecologique image by choucashoot from Fotolia.com
It is illegal for a person to throw litter or other solid waste from a vehicle onto public or private property anywhere in the state of South Carolina and its waters. Litter includes cigarettes, cigarette filters, trash, rubbish, bottles, paper, cans or other similar substances.

Convicted violators must properly dispose of the litter arising from their offense in addition to repairing or restoring any damaged public or private property. If there's no conviction, the property owner is responsible for removal.

Littering penalties may include up to a year imprisonment. handcuffs image by William Berry from Fotolia.com
Penalties imposed are based on the weight or volume of the litter, place of disposal, and the number of convictions on the violator's record. Punishments include fines from $200 up to $1,000, litter cleanup or other court-ordered community service up to 100 hours and the possibility of up to a year imprisonment.

Unless a person is injured as a result of the violator's actions, the crime is classified as a misdemeanor. If injury occurs, the crime is a felony. In the event of a felony the violator is subject to additional criminal and civil penalties, including damages and attorney's fees. A conviction remains on the perpetrator's record for five years from the date of the last violation.

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