Dumpster diving is technically legal in all 50 states. In 1988, there was a Supreme Court case (the State of California vs. Greenwood) that ruled searching trash is legal as long as it does not conflict with any city, county, or state ordinances.2019-10-28
What stores are best for dumpster diving?
- Neighborhood Yard Sales and Garage Sales. ...
- Apartment Complexes. ...
- Grocery Stores. ...
- Bakeries. ...
- Retail Stores. ...
- Electronics Stores. ...
- Construction Sites. ...
- College and University Dorms. At the end of the year, especially for seniors, you can find a ton of usable items tossed in the trash at schools.
Can you go to jail for Dumpster diving?
Dumpster diving is legal in the United States except where prohibited by local regulation. ... However, if a dumpster is against a building or inside a fenced enclosure marked “No Trespassing,” you could be questioned, ticketed or even arrested by the police.
Why are you not allowed to dumpster dive?
Dumpster diving could be considered unlawful behavior if the container is on private property or if the dumpsters or surrounding area is clearly marked private. If divers don't heed any trespassing signs or private property markings, they could be questioned, ticketed, or even arrested by the police.2018-05-22
What happens if you get caught dumpster diving?
For instance, police would still need a warrant to search the trash cans inside your house. ... In this case, the person could be ticketed or arrested by police if they're caught rummaging through a dumpster that is on private property, against the side of a building, or in an area marked with a “no trespassing” sign.2017-05-31