Is Dumpster Diving Legal in New Jersey? But the question pops up: Is it legal to dumpster-dive in New Jersey? Here’s a quick summary of what you should know about dumpster diving in New Jersey-the laws and the rules.
The Basics: Dumpster Diving Laws
In the United States, what the law says about dumpster diving often depends on property rights and trespassing laws. In California v. Greenwood, the U.S. Supreme Court said in 1988 that things left out for trash pickup are usually in the public domain.
Things left in dumpsters on private property, however, might not be. This is where New Jersey’s dumpster diving laws get tricky.
Dumpster Diving and Trespassing Laws in New Jersey
Property laws in New Jersey allow business owners and homeowners to determine who is allowed to enter their property. Most commercial dumpsters are located on private property, and thus dumpster diving on those locations may technically be illegal trespassing.
Trespassing is illegal in New Jersey, and those individuals who engage in such acts can face fines or even criminal charges depending on the situation.
For instance, dumpster diving within an area as marked “No Trespassing” or surrounded with fences puts one at risk with the law.
City Ordinances: Local Dumpster Diving Restrictions
Besides the state laws, a lot of cities and towns in New Jersey have their own rules about getting rid of trash.
Dumpster access might be limited to individuals who are not supposed to be in the place due to public safety reasons. This could be hygiene, litter, or other possible dangers.
Some cities, like Newark, Jersey City, and Trenton, have ordinances about how trash is collected that may make dumpster diving not as desirable. People caught dumpster diving may be told to leave by the cops. Reoffenders may receive summons.
Is Dumpster Diving Legal on Public Property?
Dumpster diving is probably not nearly as illegal in places where the dumpster is in public land, such as near a park or schools. However most of the dumpsters in these locations are regulated by municipal regulations and policies concerning trash collection.
Cities will typically only allow you to use these dumpsters for their intended purpose, and rummaging can land you a fine or police warning. As with the private property, it is generally best to inspect the rules or seek permission first.
Risks of Dumpster Diving in New Jersey
Some divers are respectful and only scrounge up what they can use and leave places clean, but others may cause troubles without knowing it.
A lot of people and businesses are wary of dumpster divers because they might steal, leave trash behind, or be dangerous. People who break these rules may be punished by the authorities, especially if they make a mess or damage something.
Tips for Legal Dumpster Diving in New Jersey
Want to stay out of trouble with the law when dumpster diving? Here are some things to think about:
Seek Permission: First, it’s essential to ask business owners or property managers if they are okay with you accessing their dumpster.
Avoid “No Trespassing” Areas: The accessible areas should be your go-to destinations, and do not try jumping over fences or trying to open locks.
Go during Business Hours: When on commercial property, going at business hours and getting permission can help.
Be Informed: Check online for local ordinances or go down to city hall to understand particular restrictions.
Conclusion
Dumpster diving is not specifically illegal in New Jersey. Those who trespass private property or restricted area are usually charged with trespassing, even though the act itself has nothing to do with illegality.
You can safely dumpster dive if you learn the rules, gain knowledge about the area, and respect people’s property rights.
