The issue of accidental environmental contamination of homes and businesses has been of increasing concern. Actual costs to state and federal governments for relocation of persons and restoration of habitats have run into the tens of millions of dollars. In addition to these real costs, there have been more illusive costs to public health. These costs are found both in increased levels of negative physiological and psychological effects. The two sources thus far identified as causes of these effects are toxic agents and stress. Since, up to this point, research has focused upon toxic agents, this paper addresses issues related to the effects of stress. Adult residents (N=396) living adjacent to the only Class I sanitary landfill in southern California participated in a survey which asked for demographic information (including educational levels), health-related information (such as frequency of colds and sleep problems), and questions about stress-related issues (demoralization, current upset, perceived threat to physical health, attitude toward quality of life, and trust in authorities). Although significant correlations were noted (such as between educational level and demoralization), overall results suggest that while a toxic waste receiving landfill generates some degree of stress, it is insufficient to produce recognizable levels of behavioral effects. (JN)