Problem of Cigarette Butts

In our condo complex, we have problems with a number of residents who throw their cigarette butts outside of their units. The problem is that we do not know from which of four units they are being thrown. We would like to send them a warning and then a fine to the owners if the problem continued. We are, however, stuck with the problem that we do not know from which unit they are being thrown. Any expeience in this and possible solutions.?

Alex, are you my neighbor? Because I'm getting the feeling we're talking about the same complex!!!

We have the same problem and WE don't know where they're coming from, either. We THOUGHT we did because our maintenance man said they were from one particular unit and he was getting tired of picking them up.

We sent a letter to that resident and received a NASTY reply back saying it was the person ABOVE them who was doing it. We'll be more careful next time!

We'll probably send a "generic" letter to everyone asking for compliance with our littering and garbage rules; then wait and see what happens.

DNA is pretty expensive.

It's a good idea to put out a general letter, or bring it up at the next HOA meeting so it's in the minutes. Additionally, you might quote something about the Clean Water Act and it's governing permits in your state - City ordinances, State permits, etc. for the protection of water quality. Cigarette butts have been found to be toxic to marine life, just the butt itself, without having even been smoked!

Also, check your Vehicle Code. CA Vehicle Code has a strict section on cigarette litter - $100 - $1,000 fines plus 8 hours of community service. Post whatever your code is somewhere, or in the minutes, to help deter the litter.