Dumpster Diving in Reading

Dumpster Diving in Reading

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“One person’s garbage is another person’s treasure.” That old saying rings especially true for the hobby of dumpster diving in Reading, PA. Some see rummaging through others’ trash or recycling bins for food, merchandise, and other items as an innocent way to creatively reuse discarded goods. But is this practice actually legal in Reading? 

With ever-rising grocery prices and a cultural push to reduce consumption and live more sustainably, dumpster diving for still-usable goods has grown in popularity. Food distributors, stores, and restaurants toss out copious amounts of edible, valuable merchandise daily. Supporters argue that repurposing this waste not only benefits individuals in need but also benefits the larger environment as a whole. 

But before you grab your gloves and set out on a midnight run behind Reading grocery stores and restaurants, it’s important to understand precisely where the law stands on this unconventional hobby. In this article we’ll unpack the nuances around the legality of dumpster diving in Reading and help shed light on current policies and potential penalties involved.

Is Dumpster Diving Legal in Reading, PA?

There are no specific laws in Reading prohibiting the act of dumpster diving. This means that going through store or restaurant dumpsters to find discarded items is not explicitly illegal according to local statutes.

However, there are some legal considerations to keep in mind if you plan to go dumpster diving in Reading:

  • Trespassing laws still apply – While you can legally go through dumpsters, you need permission to be on private property where the dumpsters are located. You can’t trespass on private lots to get to dumpsters.
  • Avoid making a mess – It’s illegal to litter or leave a mess around dumpsters that could be considered criminal mischief. Dumpster diving shouldn’t create extra work for stores or employees.
  • Don’t break locks – Never force open a locked dumpster enclosure or bin. This could lead to breaking and entering charges. Only scavenge through dumpsters that are unlocked and accessible.
  • Dumpster contents still belong to the business – Legally, anything in a dumpster still belongs to the business until collected by a waste management company. Only take items that appear completely discarded.
  • Be quick and quiet – The longer you linger rummaging through dumpsters or the more noise you make, the more likely you’ll attract attention and complaints. Get in and out efficiently.

By being respectful, low-key, and avoiding property damage, you can legally dive in dumpsters in Reading. It’s a gray area of the law, so following best practices helps avoid issues with police or businesses. With the right precautions, you can legally explore dumpsters to hunt for hidden treasures.

Police Response to Dumpster Diving

While dumpster diving itself is not illegal in Reading, police may intervene if they believe you are trespassing on private property. Store managers can ask divers to leave the premises, and police may be called to enforce this.

However, police response tends to be lenient toward dumpster divers who cooperate fully. Divers are unlikely to be arrested or cited if they promptly leave when asked and do not attempt to re-enter the property.

Police understand that people dumpster dive for a variety of reasons. As long as divers are respectful and not causing a nuisance, most officers will simply ask them to move along.

The best way to avoid issues with police is to be polite if questioned, leave promptly when asked, and do not trespass in restricted areas clearly marked with “no trespassing” signs. As long as you avoid making a mess and do not attempt to enter buildings or fenced-off areas, police response will likely be minimal.

With some common sense precautions, most divers manage to avoid serious legal trouble. But for those worried about police confrontation, it is safest to avoid trespassing and dumpster diving only in public areas. Being informed of local laws and cooperating fully with any law enforcement helps minimize risk as well.

Liability Issues

When dumpster diving, there are some risks and liability issues to be aware of. While diving itself is generally legal, you can still face civil liability if certain issues come up.

Injuries While Diving

One risk is the potential for injuries while digging through dumpsters. Dumpster divers climb into and out of dumpsters, which can lead to slip and fall accidents. Divers may cut themselves on broken glass or sharp objects thrown away in the bins. Hazardous materials disposed of improperly could also cause health issues if mishandled or touched. You assume responsibility for safely navigating any dangers inside the dumpsters.

Dangers from Dumpster Items

There is also potential liability if you remove an item from a dumpster and that item later causes damages. For example, say you find chemicals or combustible materials and take them home. If those materials later explode, catch fire, or otherwise cause property damage, the original owner of the refuse may not be liable, but you could be held responsible for handling dangerous discarded items irresponsibly.

Reduce Risks by Taking Precautions

To reduce liability risks, take precautions when dumpster diving. Bring gloves to protect your hands from sharp objects. Wear sturdy shoes in case broken glass is present. Avoid trying to climb or reach into dumpsters positioned up on ledges. Leave any highly combustible, toxic, or unidentified substances alone. Be responsible in handling discarded materials you remove to avoid harm down the line. By being cautious and leaving dangerous items behind, you can reduce the liability risks associated with dumpster diving injuries or damages.

Safety Precautions for Dumpster Diving

Dumpster diving can be risky if you’re not properly prepared. Here are some tips to dive safely:

Wear Protective Gear

Wear closed-toe shoes, gloves, and protective clothing that covers your arms and legs. This will protect you from sharp objects, jagged metal, or food waste in the dumpster. Consider wearing knee pads as well for more comfort while kneeling.

Bring a Flashlight

It will be dark inside the dumpster, so bring a flashlight to see better. Headlamps work well and keep your hands free.

Don’t Go Alone

Have at least one partner with you. Not only is there safety in numbers, but having someone watch your back is helpful in case you need assistance getting in or out of the dumpster.

Avoid Hazards

Do not climb into dumpsters containing chemicals, oil, grease or other hazardous materials. It’s not worth the risk of injury or contamination. Also be cautious of needles or broken glass.

Additional Tips

  • Wash your hands thoroughly after diving.
  • Consider getting tetanus and hepatitis shots as a precaution.
  • Check local dumpster ordinances before diving.
  • Avoid making a mess while digging.
  • Don’t trespass on private property.
  • Be quick and quiet to avoid confrontation.

By taking proper safety measures, you can reduce the risks of dumpster diving. Use common sense and remember that safety comes first.

Where to Go Dumpster Diving in Reading

Some of the best spots to go dumpster diving in Reading include grocery stores, big box retailers, college campuses after move-out days, and retail shopping centers.

Grocery Stores

Grocery store dumpsters can be a treasure trove for divers. Stores often throw out food items, both packaged and fresh, that are near or just past their expiration date. This provides the opportunity to salvage perfectly good food that can cut down on your grocery bills. Some items to watch for include fresh produce, baked goods, dairy products, meats, and shelf-stable items. The best times to hit up grocery store dumpsters are often at night after the store has closed. Some of the major grocery store chains around Reading to check include Giant, Redner’s, Wegmans, and Aldi.

Big Box Retailers

Big box stores like Walmart, Target, Kohl’s, Best Buy, and Home Depot receive so much inventory that they frequently toss products that are returned, slightly damaged, or overstocked. Their large dumpsters can contain electronics, furniture, housewares, clothing, toys, and more. The key is to inspect the items carefully before taking them to make sure they are in working condition or can be repaired. Also be mindful of any store policies prohibiting dumpster diving. Going at night is best.

College Campuses

When college students move out at the end of a semester, a bunch of perfectly usable items often get tossed in the dorm and apartment dumpsters. Couches, mini-fridges, shelves, laundry baskets, and various dorm supplies are common finds. Check dumpsters around Albright College, Alvernia University, and Reading Area Community College right after move-out days end. Just be respectful of any posted signs.

Retail Shopping Centers

Strip malls and larger retail shopping centers can also offer dumpster diving opportunities depending on the stores located there. Some may contain craft, clothing, sporting goods, pet supplies, or department stores that discard returns, damaged items, or overstock. Be discreet, go at night, and look out for security patrols in these areas. The Reading Mall area and the shops along Penn Street are worth checking.

Grocery Stores

Grocery stores can be a prime dumpster diving location due to the large volumes of still-edible food they throw out daily. The best days and times to go dumpster diving at grocery stores are typically weekday evenings when they are restocking shelves for the next day.

Some common finds in grocery store dumpsters include:

  • Fresh produce that reached its sell-by date but is still good to eat
  • Baked goods like breads, bagels, and pastries that are near or just past their expiration date
  • Packaged foods like cereal, crackers, and canned goods that may have damaged packaging but the contents are still sealed and safe
  • Dairy products like yogurt, cheese, and milk that are just before the expiration date on the package
  • Meats that need to be frozen or cooked soon but are still safe if you inspect them closely

Grocery stores try to limit food waste, but due to health codes and sell-by dates, many edible items still end up discarded. Just be sure to evaluate the quality and safety of any foods from the dumpster. With some planning and care, grocery store dumpster diving can yield a bounty of still-delicious ingredients to enjoy!

Big Box Retailers

Big box retailers like Walmart, Target, Best Buy, and Home Depot can be great places to find all kinds of unsold merchandise and returned items. These large retailers frequently throw out imperfect yet still usable merchandise in order to make room for new inventory.

The best big box locations for dumpster diving in Reading are:

  • Walmart on 5th Street Highway – This Walmart sees a high volume of returns and has large dumpsters. You can often find unopened electronics, home goods, and other products. The dumpsters are located at the back of the parking lot.
  • Target on Penn Ave – This Target throws out returned and unsold clothes, shoes, home decor, small appliances, and electronics almost daily. The dumpsters are behind the loading docks accessible from the back of the parking lot. Go at night to avoid employees.
  • Home Depot on Lancaster Ave – This Home Depot location discards tools, hardware, lumber cut-offs, home improvement supplies, and outdoor gear on a regular basis. The large dumpsters are behind the garden center, away from customer view. Early mornings (before 7am) are best.
  • Best Buy on Woodland Rd – This Best Buy dumps unsold and returned electronics almost daily. You can find TVs, computers, tablets, appliances and more. The dumpsters are behind the store, but beware of cameras. Late nights are best.

The key to finding the best stuff is to go frequently and look carefully. Be prepared to sort through some trash to uncover the treasures. Persistence and timing are everything when dumpster diving at big box stores.

Retail Shopping Centers

Retail shopping centers can be great spots for dumpster diving in Reading since they often have a wide variety of stores clustered together. Shoppers tend to return unwanted items purchased from retail stores, so their dumpsters may contain lightly used clothing, shoes, toys, electronics, and more.

Some popular retail plazas and shopping centers to check in Reading include:

  • Berkshire Mall – This large indoor mall has department stores like Macy’s and JCPenney that could have decent dumpsters. The food court dumpsters may also yield unfinished meals and snacks.
  • Reading Towne Center – An open-air plaza with various apparel shops like Old Navy, DSW, and Ross. Their dumpsters could have returns like clothing and shoes.
  • Broadcasting Square – This shopping center off Papermill Road has big box stores like Target, Best Buy, and Kohls. Check their dumpsters for electronics, home goods, and clothing.
  • Wyomissing Square – A mixed-use center with eateries and boutique shops. May find higher end clothing and accessory items.

When dumpster diving at retail plazas, go during off hours to avoid disturbing business operations. Be prepared to sort through some trash to uncover the treasures within. Exercise caution around broken glass or sharp objects.

College campuses

College campuses can be a dumpster diver’s paradise, especially around move-in and move-out times. Students often throw away perfectly good items like mini-fridges, microwaves, furniture, and clothing when they move in and out of dorms each year.

The best dumpsters to hit are around the dorms. Look for dumpsters specifically dedicated to dorm move-ins and move-outs. These will be packed with discarded items that students don’t want to haul back home or to their new housing. You can find practically new furniture, small appliances like coffee makers and blenders, textbooks, school supplies, decor, and more. Clothing and shoes are also common finds, as students will toss what they don’t want to pack up.

Timing your dumpster diving trips to coincide with move-in week in August/September and move-out week in May/June will yield the biggest bounty. Don’t just limit yourself to one school – hit up dumpsters at all the colleges and universities in Reading and the surrounding areas. You’ll likely walk away with items you can re-sell or keep for yourself.

What You Can Find

One of the best parts of dumpster diving is that you never know what treasures you might uncover. Here are some of the most common and valuable items people find when dumpster diving in Reading:

Edible Foods

Grocery store dumpsters can be a goldmine for edible food that has passed its sell-by date but is still perfectly safe to eat. Divers often find fruits, vegetables, bread, packaged goods, and baked goods that have been thrown out simply because they reached their expiration date. With a little inspection and common sense, much of this food is still consumable.

Clothing

Retail outlets frequently toss out clothes, shoes, and accessories that may have minor defects or are last season’s inventory. By dumpster diving at clothing retailers, divers can stock up on practically new apparel for free. Brand name clothing in excellent condition is commonly found.

Furniture

Quality furniture can often be salvaged from the dumpsters of home goods stores and apartment complexes. Divers come across chairs, tables, couches, shelves, and other furniture that may need some minor repairs or a fresh coat of paint. Dumpster diving is a great way to furnish your home for free.

Housewares

From cookware to decor, all kinds of household items get tossed in the trash. Dumpster diving behind stores, hotels, and colleges during move-outs yields dishes, utensils, linens, lamps, rugs, and more. These discarded housewares can be cleaned up for use at home.

Electronics

While finding working electronics isn’t guaranteed, divers do come across repairable or salvageable electronics dumped by households, colleges, offices, and retailers. With some technical skills, it’s possible to find laptops, phones, TVs, appliances, and other electronics to fix up. Vintage electronics can also be resold to collectors.

Reselling Dumpster Finds

One way to profit from your dumpster diving is to resell interesting finds on sites like eBay, Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace. With some smarts, you can turn trash into cash.

Focus on selling trendy, niche or vintage items that will appeal to certain buyers. For example, retro video games, comics, vintage clothes and other collectibles often sell well online. Make sure to research completed listings and check comps (completed sales) to properly price items.

Some categories that tend to do well include:

  • Electronics – vintage video game systems, radios, cameras
  • Media – records, CDs, DVDs, video games, comic books
  • Toys – 1980s-1990s toys, action figures, dolls
  • Clothing – vintage tees, jackets, hats, shoes
  • Home goods – retro appliances, furnishings, decor

When listing items, take high-quality photos and write detailed descriptions noting any defects. Be honest about condition. Pack items very carefully to avoid damage in shipping.

Building up a seller profile with positive feedback will make buyers more confident in purchasing from you. Provide great customer service by responding to questions promptly, shipping quickly and accepting returns gracefully.

While reselling offers a chance to profit, make sure to follow all laws and regulations. Do not try to resell anything that is prohibited, counterfeit or potentially dangerous. With some diligence, you can turn your dumpster diving discoveries into a nice side income.

Legal Risks of Reselling

Overall, there are only a few legal risks or potential issues to be aware of when it comes to reselling items found dumpster diving.

As long as you avoid trying to sell anything illegal, prohibited or potentially hazardous, you are unlikely to face any legal trouble simply for reselling discarded items for profit. Things like firearms, alcohol, prescription medications and other controlled or restricted items should obviously be avoided.

As far as taxes go, your dumpster diving income would generally be viewed like any other self-employment income. You are responsible for reporting earnings and paying income taxes on any profits made from reselling items you found dumpster diving. The same would apply for a resale business selling your dumpster finds on platforms like eBay or at a local flea market.

It’s a good idea to keep records of your costs and sales related to dumpster diving activities if you plan to generate income this way regularly. That will allow you to report your profits and expenses at tax time accurately. But in general, the income from legally reselling discarded items is treated no differently than other income.

The bottom line is that you can feel free to resell anything legal you are able to find dumpster diving without worry as long as you don’t try selling prohibited or dangerous products and properly pay taxes on any income earned. With some due diligence, you can dive for deals and turn trash into cash without taking on legal risks.

Conclusion

Dumpster diving in Reading, PA can be a legal, lucrative, and ethical activity if done properly. This guide has covered the main points to keep in mind:

  • There are no specific local laws prohibiting dumpster diving in Reading. However, trespassing laws still apply. Avoid diving on private property or where signs prohibit it.
  • Be aware of your safety and take precautions like wearing gloves, bringing a flashlight, and going with a friend. Avoid hazardous materials.
  • The best places to find great dumpster treasures include grocery stores, big box retailers, college campuses during move-out, and retail shopping centers.
  • Use discretion when reselling items. Avoid selling anything that seems unsafe, expired, or unethical.
  • Overall, dumpster diving can be a fun recreational activity and a great way to find free items. As long as you avoid legal risks and dive ethically, it can be a rewarding experience.

With the right preparation and knowledge, you can legally and safely discover hidden treasure through dumpster diving in Reading! Just be sure to keep safety and ethics top of mind.

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