The California Attorney General’s Office announced Tuesday that it has filed a civil lawsuit against the owners and operators of the Chiquita Canyon Landfill in Castaic. The complaint accuses Waste Connections, the landfill’s parent company, and affiliated entities of repeatedly violating state hazardous‑waste laws, releasing dangerous chemicals, and endangering the health of surrounding communities.
Background of the controversy
Since 2022, neighbors of the 639‑acre landfill have complained of foul odors, headaches, dizziness, and irritation of the eyes, nose and throat. Residents also reported heightened anxiety and other mental‑health concerns linked to the site’s emissions. The landfill, which began operations in 1972 and stopped accepting new waste on Jan. 1, 2025, has been the focus of a growing environmental and public‑health dispute in Los Angeles County.
EPA findings and state allegations
In 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency determined that the facility violated its operating permit by emitting high levels of benzene and other volatile organic compounds—substances known to contribute to smog and ozone formation that can damage lungs. The agency labeled the conditions at Chiquita Canyon as an “imminent and substantial danger to human health and the environment,” ordering the operator to control an underground reaction, manage hazardous liquids and reduce community impacts.
Attorney General Rob Bonta echoed those concerns, stating, “Protecting the environment and safeguarding Californians requires quick and effective action from the Chiquita Canyon Landfill’s owners and operators. For too long, the landfill has done the opposite, resulting in numerous spills of leachate and other violations of our state’s hazardous‑waste laws.” The lawsuit claims the operators “repeatedly and pervasively failed to manage hazardous waste,” leading to an underground heat event that produced contaminated liquids, foul odors and other pollutants.
Relief sought by the state
The complaint, filed in Los Angeles County Superior Court, seeks civil penalties, repayment of alleged profits, and court orders mandating comprehensive cleanup. It also requests the creation of an abatement fund to protect the state’s air, water and soil. The California Department of Toxic Substances Control alleges additional violations of state hazardous‑waste statutes and accuses the companies of unfair business practices.
Local government response
State auditors recently criticized the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health for failing to consistently review air‑quality data near the landfill and for inadequately tracking residents’ health conditions. The audit described these shortcomings as “shortcomings from the beginning,” underscoring the need for stronger oversight.
Chiquita Canyon officials did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The landfill’s operator, Chiquita Canyon LLC, remains responsible for managing the site, overseeing closure activities and mitigating the underground reaction as EPA‑directed stabilization work continues.
What this means for the community
The lawsuit represents a decisive step by California officials to enforce environmental protections and hold polluters accountable. By seeking penalties and a dedicated cleanup fund, the state aims to restore safe air and water quality for the families living near the former waste site. Community members and local advocacy groups have welcomed the action, viewing it as a necessary safeguard for public health and a reminder that businesses must respect the environment and the law.
Original reporting: NBC4 Los Angeles — read the source article.
