Hot Springs (Washington Insider Magazine) – People find a lot of reasons to try and dive into a dumpster. Some of them look for hidden treasures to repurpose. While the artists look for various things they can use to create something special. If this isn’t enough some people dumpster dive to have food or other necessities for survival. It doesn’t seem like a nasty thing, but many may find it an exciting and entertaining hobby. Dumpster diving is commonly known as trash picking or curb shopping. If you are looking for a metal, dumpster diving may seem like a good option.
Is Dumpster Diving Illegal In Texas?
Every state law and municipality differs when it comes to dumpster diving. In a few cases, Texas law states it once the junk is thrown it is not allowed to dive into it. Some other states believe that it belongs to the owner until and unless waste management takes it away.
In some places, junk or garbage remains free for everyone. However, you still need to be cautious before diving inside. Even if the dumpster is placed outside, the owner has the right to pick up or throw it. The owner has the right to post signs that orders people not to touch it anyway.
Homeowners have the option to lock the dumpster or put a fence as it belongs to them. Moreover, using a chain will also turn out to be a warning sign. In these cases, if you try and dive into a dumpster it is considered trespassing. It calls for trouble and you need to keep yourself away from it. In Texas, once you throw junk it is still considered your property.
Until the trash collectors come to pick it up, no other person has the right to have it. In 2013, Houston has decriminalized the act of dumping into the garage. You will have to go through legal formalities if you are caught red-handed.
This law came into effect when a homeless man was caught looking into the junk. He was fined as the trash belonged to a certain owner. It is within the law to give the man a huge fine. However, the public was against this law and it was revised after a few years. For this reason, it is legal to dive into a dumpster.
Legal Consequences Of Dumpster Diving
In 1988, according to a Supreme Court Ruling, dumpster diving is considered legal in the United States. Sometimes it is also prohibited by local regulations. However, the new ruling states: “It is common knowledge that plastic garbage bags left on or at the side of a public street are readily accessible to animals, children, scavengers, snoops, and other members of the public.”
Now the question arises whether dumpster diving is legal or illegal in Texas. You can consider contacting the Texas Department of Public Safety customer service. They will let you know about the latest and comprehensive laws in your jurisdiction. In many states diving into the trash is considered illegal. As a result, it will charge you with some hefty fines. This will hold if you are dumpster diving in an area where it is illegal.
There are a lot of people who find it a nuisance and may call the police. Make sure you understand the rights fully before taking an action. You may also be asked to leave the property. If the owner of the trash asks you to leave the area, you are not allowed to answer back either. It is necessary to remain polite and respect the authorities to avoid any fines.
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Things To Remember Before Dumpster Diving
Dumpster diving is considered a dirty hobby. However, sometimes you can win some rewards with this hobby. Make sure you wear proper clothes that can cover your skin fully. You can keep yourself safe from allergies and contaminations. If you can use heavy rubber gloves they will turn out to be useful. As junk is dirty and features a foul smell you never know if it can be harmful to you. If dumpster diving is your hobby you must carry a hand sanitizer.
Stay safe and don’t risk yourself into many potential diseases. When you are trying this hobby for the first time it is best to know more about the surroundings. Never try to explore an unfamiliar space as it can become risky. You cannot put yourself in danger of an animal or a person attacking you from behind. People may be watching you from their window, so be careful and find an easy way to escape.
