Most industrial establishments in Addis Ababa discharge their wastes into the nearby rivers or onrnopen spaces. The urban communities, who live adjacent to industries, face health problems due tornindustrial wastes. The study took two sub cities in Addis Ababa region. These are Akaki kalitirnand Kolfe Keranio sub cities. In these sub cities the industries which are known by EPA forrnpolluting thp. environment were selected. From Akaki Kaliti Sub city: Akrem Metena AnimalrnFeed Factory, Kaliti Food SC, Akaki Metal Products Factory and K.K Textile Factory and fromrnKolfe Keranio Addis Ababa Tannery and Gazelle Soap Factory were selected. The generalrnobjective of the research is to assess the extent of the industrial waste problem on urbanrncommunities. Literature states that the proximity to the source of waste generation increases thernrisk of being affected by industrial wastes.rnThe findings of the research revealed that all the industries use industrial waste disposal systems,rnmore specifically open and ocean dumping. Recycling or waste treatment systems are used by 33rnpercent of the industries. No industry uses waste avoidance or reduction methods. The licensingrnand registering bodies including Ministry of Trade and Industry at different levels and EthiopianrnInvestment Agency do not have sitting criteria applicable in the placement of industries.rnEnvironmental Protection offices are not actively involved in controlling and regulating thernindustries which are polluting the environment due to industrial wastes. Ministry of Health didrnvery little with respect to industrial wastes. On the other hand, the communities are affected byrnthe industrial waste problem. Most respondents have respiratory diseases, cough, diarrhea, andrneye problems. The day-to-day lives of the community are affected by pollution as a result ofrnindustrial wastes. The community had put complaints to different bodies including the sub city'srntop management, the sub city's Environmental Protection offices, the kebeles & industries.rnTo solve the industrial waste problem, coordinated effort of all involved is required. Awarenessrncreation task should be done by Environmental Protection Authority and Ministry of Health.rnSitting criteria needs to be designed and implemented. Measures should be taken on thosernindustries disposing untreated wastes on open spaces and/or water bodies. Coordinated effortrnwould only work if those involved are aware of the problems and the solutions suggested.