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Questions or Comments: pep@tceq.texas.gov

"Don't Mess with Texas Water": A Way to Report Illegal Dumping

The Don't Mess with Texas® Water program can help prevent illegal dumping that affects surface waters of Texas.

The TCEQ helps implement the Don’t Mess with Texas Water program created by House Bill 451 to safeguard our lakes, rivers, ponds, and streams.

About the Don't Mess with Texas Water Program

The Don’t Mess with Texas Water program works to help prevent illegal dumping that could contaminate surface waters in Texas. We work with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) and participating communities to place signs on major highway water crossings that notify drivers of a toll-free number to call to report illegal dumping.

We forward calls from the toll-free number to the appropriate local enforcement agency that handles complaints of illegal dumping for a participating area.

Cities and counties may choose to participate in this program. We will list participating communities on this page as they join the program. See below for areas participating in the program.

Get Involved

Are you a local government interested in participating? Call 512-239-0010 or e-mail us for more information.

Areas Participating in the Don't Mess with Texas Water Program

If your local government is not listed, see below for other illegal-dumping reporting programs.

  • City of Harlingen
  • City of Brownsville
  • City of Corpus Christi
  • City of Cuero & DeWitt County Drainage District No. 1
  • City of Laredo
  • City of McAllen
  • City of San Benito

Other Illegal-Dumping Reporting Programs

Many other illegal-dumping reporting programs exist throughout Texas. These links take you off the TCEQ website . If you are unable to find a program in your area, contact your local law enforcement or sheriff’s office for guidance.

Additional Information for Local Governments

Resources to manage municipal solid waste issues, including information on local government leaders, nonprofit organizations, and Texans that will help in the fight against litter and illegal dumping.

"Don't Mess with Texas®" is a registered trademark of the Texas Department of Transportation.