LA's Infamous 'Trash House' Filled With Piles of Garbage Again Two Years After Major Cleanup Operation

A Los Angeles property once cleared of more than seven tons of rubbish has again become the focus of neighbourhood concern after large quantities of waste reportedly returned to the site.

The house, located on the 600 block of North Martel Avenue in the Fairfax District, has been the subject of complaints for years. New footage showing rubbish and discarded materials surrounding the property has prompted Los Angeles County health officials to prepare an inspection.

The latest development comes just two years after city crews carried out a major clean-up at the property, which had previously become known locally as the city's 'trash house'.

Health Officials Prepare Inspection

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health said its Environmental Health Division was aware of the latest complaints and would investigate the property.

'The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, Environmental Health Division has been made aware of the current concerns, and a site investigation will be scheduled,' the department said.

Officials will assess the rubbish, sanitation conditions and any signs of vermin or infestation. If violations are found, notices may be sent to the owner and posted at the property.

The findings could also be shared with the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health and the Department of Building and Safety as authorities consider further action.

The latest concerns have frustrated neighbours who have watched the property deteriorate repeatedly after previous clean-ups.

Seven Tons of Rubbish Removed

The property attracted national attention in April 2024 when huge piles of rubbish surrounded the home.

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass visited the site and described the conditions as a 'public health emergency'. City crews subsequently removed more than seven tons of waste, including bottles, cans, clothing and other discarded material.

Almost one ton of the waste was reportedly considered flammable or hazardous. Rats were also seen around the property during the clean-up.

Bass expressed concern about the homeowner at the time, saying: 'I am so concerned about the gentleman that lived in this situation, I'm horrified to think of what is happening inside that house.'

The property had already been subject to city enforcement. Building officials cited the homeowner in 2014 over rubbish, excessive vegetation, open storage and blocked driveway access. Despite previous interventions, the rubbish eventually accumulated again.

Officials Seek Longer-Term Solution

The latest recurrence has raised questions about whether repeated clean-ups can provide a lasting solution. Mayor Bass' office said the city had intervened at the property several times and criticised the latest deterioration.

The office also said a criminal case involving the property owner remains ongoing. A court is considering appointing a conservator who could take responsibility for ensuring the property does not return to its previous condition. A further hearing is scheduled for 16 October.

Neighbours have offered differing views of the homeowner. One resident noted that the rubbish has repeatedly accumulated, been removed and returned, while another described him as 'a really sweet older guy'.

A representative for the homeowner previously rejected the description of him as a hoarder, saying he was a recycler who earned money by collecting materials.

The homeowner declined to answer questions when approached about the latest situation. The forthcoming health inspection is expected to determine whether further enforcement or clean-up action is required.