What Is Scavenging?
Scavenging is a term for the theft of recyclable materials from commercial and residential collection containers provided through a contract for services between a waste hauler and its customer.

Is Scavenging Illegal?
Yes. Scavenging from residential and commercial trash and recycling collection carts and dumpsters is illegal at local, state, and federal levels. Your trash and recycling service subscription is a business contract between you, your community, and your waste hauler. Under this contract, your waste hauler provides appropriate containers and services for garbage disposal and recycling.

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. Scavengers often leave the trash outside 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 sensitive personal information about you that can assist them in stealing your identity for various illegal purposes. Please always shred or 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 can place a plastic bag in the recycling cart.

Increases the Cost of Services
Scavenging cardboard dumpsters and mixed recycling bins is problematic. Please remember that you, the rate-payer, pay for an entire service package that includes your recycling containers. Your waste hauler's sale of recyclable materials 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 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). For South Monterey County, the non-emergency dispatch telephone number is 831-755-5111.