What Is Scavenging?
For the purposes of this discussion, scavenging is a term used to describe the theft of recyclable materials from commercial and residential collection containers provided through a contract for services between waste hauler and their customer.

Is Scavenging Illegal?
Yes. Scavenging from residential and commercial trash and recycling collection carts and dumpsters is illegal. There are local, state, and federal laws that all make scavenging an illegal activity. Your trash and recycling service is a business transaction and contract between you, your community, and your waste hauler. Under this contract, your waste hauler provides appropriate containers for garbage disposal and recycling. They provide regularly scheduled collection services, special collection events, community outreach, and many other services that benefit the community. Removing items from bins that are designated for the collection of recyclables is considered theft.

Why is it a Problem?
Scavenging is a problem because those who scavenge through residential and commercial collection containers often remove trash to find valuable recyclable items mistakenly placed in them. Often, scavengers leave the trash outside of the bins, leaving a mess for property owners to clean up. This activity can affect the environment by contaminating a community’s stormwater with litter and other dangerous residues.

Identity Theft!
Some scavengers are not looking for recyclable materials but, rather, are looking for sensitive personal information about you that can assist them in applying for credit in your name or stealing your identity for various illegal purposes. Please always shred or completely destroy items of a sensitive nature. Shredded paper can be recycled in your blue bin if it is contained in a clear plastic bag or a properly marked paper bag (staple it shut). This is the only time customers are allowed to place a plastic bag in the recycling cart.

Increases the Cost of Services
The scavenging of cardboard dumpsters and recycling bins is problematic. Please remember that you, the rate-payer, pay for an entire service package that includes your recycling containers. The sale of recyclable materials by your waste hauler is calculated into the cost of service. Recycling helps keep collection rates down and pays for recycling carts, trucks, and collection services. If recyclable materials are stolen, the cost of service increases.

What should you do if you find someone scavenging through your personal trash or recycling cart?
Do not confront the scavenger. You can call the police or stop by your local police station to file a report. You can report details such as the time and day of the occurrence, your street name, a physical description of the scavenger, and a description or license plate number of their vehicle (if it is easily seen from the safety of your home or business). The Monterey County non-emergency dispatch number is 831-755-5111.