Florida dumpster diving laws are still a controversial and talked topic among people. Especially in the United States, where the trash cans are bigger than anywhere else in the world.
There are still those who consider that it is not a violation of privacy. To the contrary, others can use objects and belongings, but it needs to take more to understand the complexity of the issue.
Dumpster diving laws by state
There are laws that indicate that waste collection will be subject to a rigorous process of reduction and reuse of waste that corresponds to dumpsters.
However, sanitation laws are not the same in every state in the United States. They are directly related to the environmental rights and laws of each region.
The federal government interferes only in places that adopt waste management codes and plans. This happens mainly because of the danger of having to handle polluted or radioactive materials.
Among the main laws, we find the one that has to do with containerized collection. It is called “Domestic Solid Waste” and is non-hazardous. These are:
- California. Pub. Res. sec. 47000 (Information and Collection of Household Hazardous Substances).
- New York Pub. Health Code sec. 1389-aa (regulated medical waste).
- NY Entl. Retain sec 27-1507 (regulation of non-hazardous waste).
- Michigan Comp. Laws Ann. sec. 299.401 (“Solid Waste Management Act”).
Florida Dumpster Diving Laws
According to the Florida dumpster diving laws, this act is legal and was approved by the Florida Supreme Court. Although there are laws against trespassing, this is a determining factor when it comes to dumpster diving.
A person can be charged with trespassing if they are found trespassing on private property. Another general rule is that the person dumpster diving must leave the site as it was.
In this sense, he/she should not leave any garbage in the surroundings. Among the rules, neither should personal data be taken, nor should vandalism take place in the public place.
Is dumpster diving illegal in Florida?
It is not illegal, unless the person enters private property, i.e., you can only access containers found in public spaces.
However, it’s very important to respect the general rules, so that diving could not be seen as an act of vandalism. Even the people, who practice it, make schedules to not disturb the tranquility of others in their properties.
In the past, this activity was exclusively made by homeless people who lived on the streets. However, over time it has become an obsession for many, even for the wealthiest.
Is it crime for dumpster diving?
The only way it can be considered a crime is if the dumpster is locked and the lock is violated. If the container is in a private residential area and is still accessed without the consent of the owners.
In addition to using personal data found to steal people’s identity and commit criminal acts. So far there are no dumpster diving laws in Florida that prevent this activity, so you only have to comply with general rules.
You could go to jail for snooping through dumpsters?
In case of non-compliance, if a police officer asks you to leave a dumpster, you must do so without putting up resistance. Especially if private property is being violated. If you do not obey, you could go to jail.
What happens if an officer finds you dumpster diving?
As long as you are not trespassing, nothing bad should happen.
Conclusion
The state of Florida endorses the legality of dumpster diving. A good impression is always important, so maintaining a healthy conduct when practicing this activity is determinant. In conclusion, Florida dumpster diving laws allow people to dumpster dive as long as they do not enter private property.
It is necessary to comply with the stipulated rules of coexistence and apply common sense every time you dumpster dive. Besides, it is necessary to adhere to the different rules that may exist in other states.
Still have doubts about dumpster diving? Here we tell you all you need to know about dumpster diving.
