DEAR DIRTBAG: Michigan’s Backroads Aren’t Your Landfill

Hey, Dirtbag. Why do you feel the need to put your old mattresses, couches, old appliances, and anything else you don't want to deal with, on one of Michigan's backroads? Why?

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Why is it that people can't dispose of their personal property in a way that doesn't screw up Michigan's beauty and make it someone else's problem? I get it, old mattresses aren't fun to have around your home, but that doesn't mean that some random dirt road is your personal landfill!

Michigan Has No Pity for Those Caught Dumping Their Litter

Michigan doesn't mess around with illegal dumpers. If you're caught you could face, on the low end, a $1,500 fine AND a state civil infraction. That's just for anything under half a cubic yard, which could be as little as a piece of paper.

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More than a cubic yard but less than 5? That's $500 PER 1/2 a cubic yard! Once you hit more than 5 cubic yards in volume, the fine is automatically $5,000 AND you will be charged with a misdemeanor. Repeat offender? You could end up with a $10,000 fine. PLUS, you'll be responsible for removing everything you dumped.

Dirt roads are home to proud folks who walk their land, know every blade of grass, and don't take kindly to people mucking up their pride and joy. Frankly, you wouldn't either.

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So, Dirtbag, stop putting your unwanted belongings on the side of Michigan's roads. Granted it does distract from the bumpy ride in some places, but ultimately you're just making your problem someone else's.