We get it; you might be tempted to throw your trash into someone else’s dumpster. What’s the harm? It seems like a convenient solution, but it is illegal. Thus, it’s advisable to hire your waste container. If you’re searching for a round rock company offering stellar roll-off dumpster services, Dumposaurus comes highly recommended.
Well, tossing your trash where it’s not meant to be is considered illegal or unauthorized dumping. It can result in a fine and potential jail time. Yes, it might sound extreme, but think of it this way: you wouldn’t want anyone to fill your dumpster simply because they think it’s underutilized. With that in mind, let’s highlight why it’s considered illegal.
1. Exceeding the Weight Limit
Dumpsters have limited capacity and weight, which is why you might see signs around them mentioning such restrictions. Overstuffing the dumpster can cause it to become too heavy or break due to the strain. And guess who would foot the bill? The renter.
Plus, the affected party may have to hire a new container for their waste, leading to extra costs. What’s more, exceeding a dumpster’s carrying capacity can result in fines at the dump site or surcharges from the waste provider.
2. Trespassing Laws
If you’re throwing your trash into someone else’s dumpster, you are basically trespassing on their private property. Unless they permit you to do so, you may be subject to fines.
The same applies if the dumpster is behind a secure fence or area that requires access authorization. That said, simply because you tossed a soda can you chanced upon on the street into the container doesn’t mean you’ll be arrested. But if you go all out and dump a full trash bag or more, you could face legal problems – if caught.
3. Health Hazards
The waste in a dumpster can cause health risks for anyone who comes into contact with it. This holds true even if the garbage disposed of is biodegradable. As such, the owner of the dumpster has the legal right to keep their property free of unauthorized waste. Otherwise, they may be held liable for health issues that may arise.
Likewise, only specific materials can go to a landfill. And waste companies are quick to spell out the game’s rules before you hire their dumpsters.
If someone throws away materials like oil, paint, batteries, tires, asbestos, electronics, or gasoline into your dumpster, it can lead to environmental pollution. Think of the impact such waste can have on water sources or the air if not taken care of properly. And guess what, if the culprit isn’t nabbed, you could be on the hook for such actions.
We’re also aware that some people rummage through dumpsters searching for items they can use or sell. While it’s not illegal to do so, it’s unsanitary and can pose a considerable health risk. Wouldn’t it be prudent to be considerate of others when dumping our stuff?
Besides, an overflowing dumpster isn’t merely an eye sore; it can create the perfect environment for rodents and other pests to breed. In turn, these critters can pose health risks to you and the people in your neighborhood.
5. Littering
Tossing trash or debris in an unapproved area is considered littering in many communities. This includes a dumpster rented by someone else. If you’re their employee, you may have a valid reason. But that’s if you’re using the dumpster for business purposes and have permission.
Conversely, if you decide your construction waste could fit the underutilized dumpster you saw nearby, you might be in for a surprise when the police knock on your door. Depending on the nature of your offense, you could be fined.
And if it’s a recurring problem, you may have to pay substantial fines. For instance, in New Jersey, you could incur a fine up to $50,000 for repeated littering offenses. Such a punitive measure may seem extreme, but it’s a clear reminder that we shouldn’t mess with the law.
A Little Mindfulness Goes a Long Way
Some people get away with throwing trash illegally. If the law catches up with you, you could be in a spot of bother. Let’s be mindful and responsible when disposing of our waste.
Be considerate of other people by not making a mess of their property. All it takes is a little mindfulness to avoid legal issues. It’s much better to take your trash to designated disposal sites and adhere to regulations.
Why risk it? Play it safe and save your day by hiring an appropriately sized dumpster if you need to toss some stuff. When you consider the potential risks and legal consequences of littering or unauthorized dumping, incurring a small fee to dispose of your waste properly is worth it, no?
