Would it be illegal if I took the empty cans out of other peoples recycling bins and turned them in for $.05?

Question

I haven't done it yet, just wanted to know.

Answer 1

Yes.

Stealing garbage is a crime - so recycling would fall under that statute.

Answer 2

Check on the laws about where trash has to be to be "open to the public" and see if there are different stipulations for recycling bins.

Search and seizure laws sometimes allow investigators unlimited access to trash left on the curb for pick-up. Surely, though, the city has laws against raiding recycle bins......there may be an implicit understanding that the recycling company that services the neighborhood owns the contents of all bins.

Don't get caught by the "wrong" people.....it would be more hassle than the profit would be worth.

Plus...........it's VERY bad manners.

Answer 3

Check to see if there is a "No Scavenging" Ordinance in your community. Most recycling contracts are written to state that curbside recycling belongs to the town once it is at the curb. That ordinance will contain any information about how it is enforced and if there is a penalty/fine associated with "stealing" the recycling.
Also, just so you know, most of the Bottle Bill states have a redemption clause that gives the deposit money to the towns when the material is picked up curbside. This usually offsets the cost of running/managing the recycling program in your area.

Answer 4

I used to do that when I went to university to help pay bills, I made about 75 a week, Lots of people did, mostly homeless people who wanted money for booze, but never have I seen or heard of anyone getting in trouble, In fact I remember one time when a homless man called the police when another homeless man stole all the bottles he collected, and the police returned them. I guess as long as you don't make a mess of peoples garbage it should be ok.

Answer 5

No, it is not illegal in the United States to remove cans from someones recyclables, if they are placed at the curb for pickup. However, it would be courteous to ask the resident for permission.

Answer 6

It is illegal because you are going through people's private property. But, people do it anyways. I work in my room and look out the window and see people looking through my recycling bin because I dont see the use in stopping them. I just think its creepy to see someone go through the trash.

Answer 7

yes til pick-up technicaly the stuff is still theirs ,,but heres a wierd thought ask them as you go by ,,,say your collecting cans for the send a child to camp fund of the boys clubs,, so you'll be by before the city to acquire the cans ,,if its ok with them,, then the cops dont meet you down the block your a nice guy not a slurper

Answer 8

I dont know if it is illegal or not but i dont see the problem with it, when u turn the cans in for cash they do get recycled anyhow. but are you really that desperate for money? youll look like a hobo!

Answer 9

LOL. I'm pretty sure that garbage is fair game, but I'm not sure about a recycling bin.

Answer 10

i think the laws state that if they are not on a person's driveway and in the street, it is no longer their property, hence they are putting out the garbage. There was a big issue on it in Denver a few years ago.

Answer 11

If it is placed out with the trash, it is legal to go through. Law Enforcement do it often when investigating crimes. Just don't leave behind a mess.