What is Dumpster Diving?

Dumpster diving involves salvaging goods from dumpsters, often those from businesses. The legality of dumpster diving and people’s opinions on it are complex. Let’s examine some of the key points about dumpster diving.

Legality of Dumpster Diving

The legality of dumpster diving varies country to country. Dumpster diving is actually legal at the federal level in the United States. It is also legal at the state level in all 50 states. It’s the county and city/town levels in which it can be illegal in some or all scenarios. Additionally, where dumpsters are located can affect the legality of dumpster diving. If a dumpster is on private property or if it’s locked, you would likely be breaking laws to dumpster dive. For example, walking onto someone’s private property to dumpster dive without permission would be illegal.

Perspectives from Business Owners

Businesses often have dumpsters that people may want to salvage in. However, every business owner has a unique perspective on this activity. Some may support recycling or reusing discarded products, while others may discourage it. Some may also worry about liability if someone were to get hurt while diving on their property. Others are more concerned about the mess people can leave from dumpster diving. On the other hand, there are some businesses where owners are willing to discuss the option and give permission.

Perspectives from Dumpster Divers

People who dumpster dive may do so for various reasons and have different outlooks on the practice. For some people, it is simply a means of survival if they do not have access to food or other necessary goods. For others, dumpster diving can be informed by a belief in recycling and reusing consumer goods to reduce environmental impacts.

Many people may donate items or food they find to people in need. Some people dumpster even dive to turn a profit, selling items they find. In addition, some people just enjoy it as a hobby.

Benefits and Downsides

Dumpster diving can be positive in many cases. Reducing waste and reusing items is certainly positive for the environment. It can also lead to a redistribution of goods and food to people who need them. If done legally and with permission, issues with business owners or the legal system are avoidable as well.

However, there are also a few potential downsides. From a diver’s perspective, it can be downright dangerous. Broken glass, needles, and other dangers can lurk in dumpsters. They can cause cuts, punctures, and other injuries that may be prone to infection or disease. There can even be biohazardous material present. Plus, some businesses may go out of their way to destroy food by adding bleach, glass, or chemicals to it before disposal. If ingested, this can be deadly. Expired food can be an issue sometimes too. Additionally, if divers are not courteous or law-abiding, they can cause trouble for business owners and communities.

Moon Dumpsters makes sure that waste disposal is as environmentally-friendly as possible, with efficient trucks and green disposal practices. To learn more about Moon’s full-service dumpster rentals and get the dumpsters you need, visit our website or call us at 502-772-2821 today!