Dumpsters!

From experience, I used to work for Dish Network as an installer. At the end of shift on the very last day (or each day depending on the load) we would scrap our trash from the vans as it was required. Alot of it was spools of cable that had little to no use and the company doesn't recycle! People are allowed to pick from there dumpsters after hours only! It's not posted, however, there is a sign that says no trespassing, that does not mean you can't take from the dumpster according to the law.



Your not allowed to loiter, steal, vandalize, or go into company property (IE: Buildings, sheds, shacks, shelves, or the roof.) That was when I worked in Kansas and now I live in Missouri and work for a company that has their bends behind barbwire fence because we do recycle and it is posted not trespassing. In Missouri and Kansas that I am aware of you can not be prosecuted for removing items from a dumpster unless it is posted. There is an unwritten law that does not allow you to dump however. A sign that says no trespassing means your not allowed on the property with out consent. However, the loophole in that is it would be the same as passing by the building on a back ally or side road. So as long as your not loitering, stealing, vandalizing, or breaking in they can't prosecute. If there are doors and a lock on the dumpster, and you climb in, over, or under that is consider unlawful and trespassing and you can be prosecuted.

Most companies around were I live don't mind as long as you do it during non-business hours. I have in fact asked companies both corporate and mom/pop shops for permission. I've been met with nothing but smiles and thank yous. I have even helped businesses start their own recycling programs just by my interest in there scrap. I've encountered the law a few times and this is were I have received my information along with the companies that I've asked. I have even had a police officer help me pull a stove out of a dumpster and load t on to my trailer! The best advice I have received is "When in doubt, ask. If it feels wrong or seems illegal then it probably is." There are many companies out there that want to recycle but it cost more for them to recycle than to actually just throw it away, which is why the allow us scrappers to do what we do. I have had companies set stuff aside out of dumpsters for me and thank me. It not only recycles, but it also cost them less when filling their own dumpster!

Enjoy Gentlemen. Happy Diving.