Are You Accidentally Breaking LA Homicide Cleanup Laws?
When tragedy strikes, most people don’t think twice about what happens after the police tape comes down. But if you’re in Los Angeles and ever find yourself dealing with a crime scene, you could be unknowingly breaking state and federal laws. Homicide cleanup isn’t just emotionally taxing—it’s a legal minefield.
Let’s peel back the caution tape and look at some biohazard cleanup laws in California that are shockingly easy to violate.
Ignorance Isn’t Innocence: Why Homicide Cleanup Laws Matter
California treats biohazardous waste—like blood, bodily fluids, and tissue—as dangerous material. According to the California Health and Safety Code Section 117600-118360, improper handling or disposal of such waste can result in civil fines or even criminal charges.
It’s not enough to mop up the mess. State law requires specific procedures for transportation, treatment, and disposal of biohazardous waste. If you try to handle it yourself or hire an unlicensed contractor, you’re likely in violation.
You Can’t Just Hire Anyone: Licensing Requirements Are Strict
In California, any company or individual performing trauma or crime scene cleanup must be registered with the California Department of Public Health and comply with OSHA’s Bloodborne Pathogens Standard (29 CFR 1910.1030).
That means:
- Extensive training in biohazard handling
- Use of personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Following OSHA-compliant disinfection protocols
If your contractor can’t prove compliance, you may be legally liable for any mishandling. At Sterile Pros, we are fully certified and trained to meet all federal and state regulations.
You Could Be Liable for Environmental Contamination
Biohazardous waste that isn’t disposed of correctly can contaminate groundwater and local ecosystems. This not only puts public health at risk but could result in legal action from environmental protection agencies.
Violations of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) can carry hefty penalties. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) classifies improperly disposed biological materials as hazardous waste.
Landlords and Property Managers: You’re Not Off the Hook
Think your cleanup responsibilities end when emergency responders leave? Think again. California law holds property owners responsible for ensuring that any biohazards are cleaned up by licensed professionals.
Failure to do so can violate local public health ordinances and open the door to lawsuits from tenants or future property buyers.
Renting Out a Crime Scene? Disclosure Is Mandatory
Under California Civil Code Section 1710.2, if you’re renting or selling a property where a violent death occurred, you must disclose this to potential tenants or buyers.
Trying to cover it up could be considered fraud. That’s another reason it’s crucial to work with a licensed cleanup firm—they’ll provide you with documentation proving the property is safe and sanitized.
Improper Cleanup = Insurance Denial
Many homeowners’ and renters’ insurance policies cover crime scene cleanup—but only if it’s performed by a certified professional. If you attempt to do it yourself or cut corners, your claim might be denied.
Our team at Sterile Pros works directly with insurers to ensure your coverage is honored, and that cleanup is completed without delay.
You Might Be Putting Public Health at Risk
A DIY approach to homicide cleanup isn’t just illegal—it’s dangerous. Bloodborne pathogens can include:
- HIV
- Hepatitis B and C
- MRSA
California OSHA mandates that all contaminated surfaces be decontaminated with EPA-approved disinfectants. Failure to follow these protocols puts everyone—including future residents and first responders—at risk.
Real Case: $100,000 Fine for Illegal Dumping
In 2019, an unlicensed cleanup crew in California was fined over $100,000 for disposing biohazardous waste in a regular dumpster. They were also criminally charged under the Medical Waste Management Act.
Don’t let that be you.
What You Should Do Instead
- Do not attempt cleanup yourself
- Do not allow an unlicensed party to handle the scene
- Immediately contact a professional firm like Sterile Pros
Our specialists will assess the scene, remove all biohazardous materials, sanitize the area, and dispose of everything according to local, state, and federal laws.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Cross Legal Lines After a Crisis
Trauma can cloud judgment, but that doesn’t mean you’re exempt from the law. Knowing and following California’s homicide cleanup regulations can save you from civil penalties, criminal charges, and emotional anguish.
Instead of risking everything, let trained professionals handle it. We provide 24/7 emergency response and guarantee compliance every step of the way.
Explore our FAQs or contact us for confidential consultations.
5 Frequently Asked Questions About Homicide Clean Up Laws
Is it illegal to clean up a homicide scene myself in California?
Yes, without proper training and permits, you may violate multiple state and federal laws.
How quickly should a homicide scene be cleaned?
Ideally within 24-48 hours to prevent contamination and further legal risks.
Can biohazard cleanup costs be covered by insurance?
Yes, but only if done by a certified and licensed provider.
What training does Sterile Pros staff undergo?
All technicians are OSHA-certified and trained in bloodborne pathogen protocols.
How do I verify if a cleanup company is licensed?
Check their credentials with the California Department of Public Health or contact us directly for verification.