LA County Landfill Pollution Claims: Protecting Your Health and Environment

Landfill pollution isn’t just about overflowing trash. Beneath the surface, emissions and runoff from landfills can release harmful chemicals into the air, soil, and water, creating serious health risks for nearby communities.

Residents in Los Angeles County face an unsettling reality: The waste meant to be contained can often spill over into their everyday lives in ways they don’t see—but certainly feel.

Municipal solid waste (MSW) landfills are among the third-largest human-made sources of methane, a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change, as well as a source of toxic contaminants that threaten public health and the environment. In the United States, MSW landfills accounted for almost 15% of methane emissions in 2022.

This article aims to shed light on the legal rights and steps that LA residents can take if they have been affected by landfill pollution.

Understanding Landfill Pollution in LA County

Landfills are designed to store waste safely, but several toxic pollutants often escape if not properly managed. These include:

Communities located near landfills are at higher risk of exposure to these pollutants. For instance, Sunshine Canyon Landfill has faced multiple complaints for noxious odors and environmental violations. The Chiquita Canyon Landfill ceased accepting trash towards the end of 2024 after restrictions on operations were imposed because part of the site was dealing with smoldering chemical reactions.

When residential areas border these facilities, the likelihood of health impacts increases significantly.

Quick Fact: Did you know that approximately 13 million Americans live within a mile of a landfill? In California, local officials have found that PFAS (or “forever chemicals”) well and truly exist as they found leachate in 84 sampled landfills in the state.

Health Risks Associated with Landfill Pollution

Exposure to landfill emissions can have a range of health effects, especially for children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing conditions. If someone in your household has unexplained illnesses and lives near a landfill, the symptoms might be related to pollution exposure. Here’s what to watch out for:

Legal Options for Residents Affected by Landfill Pollution

If landfill gas pollution has compromised your health or property, you can seek justice and compensation through multiple legal avenues.

Personal Injury Claims

You can file a claim for health conditions caused by landfill pollution. To build a strong case, you will need the following:

  1. Medical documentation: Keep records of symptoms, diagnoses, and treatments.
  2. Expert testimony: Work with physicians and environmental experts who can connect your health issues to pollution.
  3. Proven causation: Demonstrate a clear link between landfill emissions and your condition.

Property Damage Claims

Pollution can reduce property values, render land unsafe, or contaminate private wells. Property damage lawsuits may address these concerns, focusing primarily on:

Mass Tort Lawsuits

When entire communities are harmed by the same source—like landfill pollution—mass tort lawsuits allow individuals to seek justice together while maintaining separate claims.

Unlike class actions, mass torts treat each plaintiff’s case individually. This is especially important when the health impacts, property damage, or environmental exposure differ from person to person. Each person still has to prove their own damages, but the cases are grouped together against the same defendants to improve efficiency and strengthen the overall legal effort.

Mass torts also allow for shared legal resources. Experts, evidence, and investigative work can be applied across multiple cases, which helps reduce legal costs and accelerates progress. With experienced firms like Frantz Law Group leading the charge, victims benefit from collective strength while still getting personalized attention to their unique circumstances.

Environmental Lawsuits

Many landfill operators must comply with environmental laws, such as the Clean Air Act and the Clean Water Act. If violations occur, environmental lawsuits can ensure compliance and hold operators responsible for their actions.

Legal actions often target issues such as air pollution caused by methane emissions or water contamination from toxic landfill runoff. These lawsuits can compel operators to pay damages, clean up affected areas, or implement stricter pollution controls.

Governmental Complaints

If you’re concerned about landfill pollution, filing a formal complaint with governmental agencies is an effective way to voice your concerns and push for action.

You can start with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) by submitting an online form on their website and providing detailed information about the issue, including any evidence or observations you’ve gathered. The EPA takes reports seriously, especially concerning air and water contamination.

For local complaints, you can contact the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. You can submit a complaint through their online portal or contact the Environmental Health Division directly. Be sure to include specifics, such as the name of the landfill, the dates and nature of the pollution, and how it has affected your health or property.

Gathering Evidence and Building a Strong Case

If you suspect you are suffering from landfill pollution, documentation is critical. A solid case means being well-prepared with all possible evidence, which can increase your chances of a favorable resolution, whether through settlement or trial.

  1. Medical records: Track symptoms and dates of diagnosis. Keep all receipts, prescriptions, and medical correspondence.
  2. Environmental samples: Collect water, soil, or air samples for testing by licensed professionals.
  3. Witness testimony: Neighbors and community members can confirm that pollution issues are widespread.
  4. Expert analysis: Hire experts in environmental science who can identify pollutants and sources of contamination. A personal injury law firm, like Frantz Law Group, typically has access to resources and can do the outreach on your behalf.
  5. Communication logs: Keep records of any complaints, emails, or letters exchanged with landfill operators or government agencies.

Steps to Take If You Suspect Landfill Pollution

If you believe your home or health has been affected by landfill pollution, here’s what to do next:

  1. Seek medical attention: Visit a doctor if you or any family members experience symptoms of exposure.
  2. Document everything: Keep a detailed log of persistent and overwhelming odors, environmental issues, or unusual occurrences near your home.
  3. Report to authorities: File complaints with local environmental agencies like the LA County Department of Public Health or the EPA.
  4. Consult an attorney: Speak with an experienced environmental attorney to explore your legal options.

Protect Your Rights with Frantz Law Group

Landfill pollution is a serious issue that deserves immediate action. If you or your community is suffering from its consequences, remember you have legal rights and options to fight back.

At Frantz Law Group, we specialize in handling environmental and personal injury cases. With years of expertise and a solid track record of success, we are here to ensure your voice is heard and your concerns are addressed.

Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward protecting your family, home, and community.