What class of misdemeanor is an offense for illegal dumping of litter weighing five pounds or less?

An offense for illegal dumping of litter weighing five pounds or less is classified as a Class C misdemeanor. In Texas, the classification of misdemeanors ranges from Class A, the most serious, to Class C, which is the least serious. Class C misdemeanors typically involve less severe offenses and are often punishable by a fine rather than jail time.

Illegal dumping of small amounts of litter, such as five pounds or less, falls under this classification as it does not pose a significant threat to public safety or the environment when compared to larger illegal dumping offenses. This categorization reflects the state's approach to managing minor littering offenses, focusing on enforcement and fines rather than incarceration for minimal infractions.

In contrast, Class A and Class B misdemeanors involve more significant offenses that can result in higher fines and potential jail time, which wouldn't apply in this scenario. Hence, the designation of this specific illegal dumping offense as a Class C misdemeanor aligns with the state's laws regarding littering and the intent to handle less serious violations in a manner that encourages compliance without severe punitive measures.