Dumpster Diving in Tennessee

Dumpster Diving in Tennessee

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This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of legal and ethical dumpster diving in Tennessee. It will cover key questions like the legality of dumpster diving in the state, the best spots to check for discarded goods, what types of items you’re likely to find, and tips for diving safely and staying respectful. Whether you’re an experienced dumpster diver looking to explore new territory or a beginner hoping to get started, this guide will help you dive successfully in Tennessee without breaking any laws or codes of conduct. We’ll also look at some common counterarguments against dumpster diving.

By the end of this guide, you’ll have a solid understanding of how to legally and ethically participate in Tennessee’s growing dumpster diving scene. Let’s dive in!

Is Dumpster Diving Legal in Tennessee?

Dumpster diving is legal in Tennessee at the federal level based on landmark court rulings, but local ordinances can impact the legality. 

On a federal level, dumpster diving was affirmed as legal by the 1988 California vs. Greenwood Supreme Court Case. This case found there is no expectation of privacy for discarded materials in dumpsters. So, at the federal level, dumpster diving is legal in Tennessee and not considered theft or trespassing.

However, local ordinances in cities, counties, and private properties can impact the legality of dumpster diving. Trespassing laws are the most common ordinance that can make dumpster diving illegal if the dumpster is not on public property. Some areas may also require dumpster divers to obtain permits or permission for liability reasons. 

Law enforcement practices vary widely in Tennessee. Some police discourage and loosely enforce against dumpster diving, but legality often depends on location. Divers should be careful diving in dumpsters on private property or marked ‘no trespassing.’ Stick to public property dumpsters like those at parks, businesses, apartment complexes, and schools to avoid issues.

Dumpsters and Property Laws in Tennessee

Dumpsters on public property like sidewalks and alleys are generally fair game for dumpster diving in Tennessee. However, dumpsters on private property have some additional considerations. 

Public vs. Private Dumpsters

Dumpsters on public property are placed there expressly for the public to use for disposal of trash. Diving in these dumpsters is legal if you are not trespassing on private property or violating local ordinances. Examples include dumpsters on public sidewalks, public parks, at rest stops, etc.

Private property dumpsters are a bit more complicated. Businesses and apartment complexes often explicitly prohibit non-tenants from using their dumpsters, with violators subject to trespassing charges. Dumpster diving in these locations without permission could lead to legal trouble. Some businesses also have signs posted on their dumpsters prohibiting scavenging or rummaging through the contents. 

Avoiding Trespassing 

When dumpster diving on private property, it’s essential to avoid trespassing. Parking lots, alleys behind stores, apartment complexes, construction sites, and other private locations are off-limits unless you have explicit permission. Don’t enter gated areas, climb fences/walls, or access a dumpster that requires crossing into non-public spaces.

Seeking Permission  

Some businesses may permit dumpster diving if you request advance permission. It doesn’t hurt to call and politely ask if they would allow you to go through their waste receptacles. Ensure to come during their approved hours, bring ID if requested, and always be respectful if told no. Some may also require you to sign a waiver of liability.

Best Places For Dumpster Diving in Tennessee

When starting dumpster diving in Tennessee, some of the best spots are public dumpsters in parking lots and busy commercial areas. Private dumpsters have more restrictions, so general dumpsters are the most accessible place to start.

Some top dumpster diving spots in Tennessee include:

  • Public Parks – Parks often have public dumpsters near restrooms, concession stands, and parking lots. These can turn up snacks, drinks, event items, and more.
  • Public Libraries – Libraries frequently toss lightly used or excess books and media. Their dumpsters can contain fun finds for leisure reading.
  • Schools and Universities – At the end of each semester, dorm dumpsters overflow with lightly used furnishings, decor, appliances, and electronics that students no longer want to move home.
  • Grocery Stores – Grocery stores throw away huge volumes of still edible food due to expiration dates or small cosmetic imperfections. Dive their dumpsters to find lots of snacks, drinks, and ingredients.
  • Retail Stores – Clothing, home goods, and other retail stores toss anything unsold each season. Check their dumpsters for merchandise in great condition.
  • Apartment Complexes – When tenants move out, lots of items in good condition get thrown away. Apartment dumpsters can contain furniture, decor, and more. 

The busiest retail areas and densest apartment complexes tend to be the most target-rich dumpster diving locations in Tennessee’s major cities. Always be careful and avoid unsafe areas when scoping out new dumpster spots. With some exploration, you’re bound to find productive places to dive legally.

What to Expect Dumpster Diving in Tennessee

Tennessee’s dumpsters can yield all kinds of goods, from barely used items to things that need some work. Here’s a quick rundown of what you may find:

Clothing and Shoes 

Outside clothing stores like Ross, TJ Maxx, and Marshalls, dumpsters often contain new or lightly used clothes with tags still attached. Shoes in good condition can also be found, though the sizes and styles will be random. Expect some stains on clothing, holes in shoes, missing buttons, and other minor defects. 

Furniture

Furniture can be found in working order or needing repairs. Dressers, tables, chairs, sofas, mattresses, and more show up in dumpsters, especially near colleges after move-out day. These may have scratches, missing hardware, or reek of smoke. But dumpster furniture can become functional again with some repairs, a good clean, and new paint.

Food 

Grocery store dumpsters contain lots of still edible food, though exercise caution (see the Food Safety section). Dented cans, expired packages, and day-old baked goods are common. Take only unopened, unexpired items and inspect carefully before eating. 

Electronics

From TVs to laptops, printers, cables, gaming systems, and appliances like microwaves, electronics find their way into dumpsters often. Some work perfectly while others need minor repairs. Expect older/discontinued models. Carefully inspect for any signs of roach infestations or pet damage.

Housewares

Plates, cutlery, pots, pans, appliances like blenders, and various home decor can be found. Also craft supplies, holiday items after each season, office supplies, pet supplies, and more. Inspect closely for flaws, stains or other damage. 

Assessing Value

The key is to examine items closely. Check for flaws and assess what repairs may be needed. Research prices for similar items in good condition to gauge potential resale value. With a bit of work, many dumpster finds can be cleaned up and restored to sell or use.

Best Practices for Ethical Dumpster Diving

Dumpster diving can be a fun and frugal way to find useful items, reduce waste, and potentially make some extra money. However, it’s important to adhere to ethical practices so that your dumpster diving doesn’t negatively impact businesses or create safety or legal issues. Here are some best practices to keep in mind:

  • Only take what you need– Don’t get greedy and take more than you can reasonably use or repurpose. This ensures there are still goods left for others and prevents waste from hoarding items you don’t truly need.
  • Leave dumpsters tidy – Try to avoid making a mess when dumpster diving. Leave the area nicer than you found it. Scattering debris or trash around the dumpsters creates more work for the businesses and employees.
  • Respect store policies – If a store has signs saying dumpster diving is prohibited, don’t disregard their policy. Move on to a different location. You don’t want to jeopardize their willingness to allow diving at their dumpsters.
  • Don’t climb or enter the dumpsters – Stay out of the dumpsters for your safety and to avoid property damage. Reach in from the sides or have someone hand you items from above.
  • Dive during appropriate hours – Stick to early mornings or late nights when fewer people are around. Avoid peak business hours when your presence may disturb operations.
  • Follow trespassing laws – Only dive in publicly accessible dumpsters, not ones in gated/locked areas. Don’t trespass on private property without explicit permission.  
  • Use common sense – Don’t leave a mess, damage property, make excessive noise, or otherwise dive in a manner considered disorderly conduct. Use good judgment to avoid antagonizing anyone.

By adhering to these ethical dumpster diving practices, you can enjoy the hobby while also being respectful and avoiding legal issues. Responsible diving helps maintain positive perceptions and access to dumpsters.

Reselling Dumpster Finds

One of the appeals of dumpster diving is the ability to resell items for profit. However, there are some important legal and ethical considerations when it comes to reselling dumpster dived goods.

Legality of Reselling Finds

The legality of reselling dumpster-dived items depends on a few factors:

Avoiding theft: Items that have been intentionally thrown away are usually legal to take and resell. However, certain retailers will sometimes intentionally damage items before throwing them away to deter dumpster divers. Taking and reselling intentionally damaged goods could potentially qualify as theft or fraud. When in doubt, it’s best to avoid these items.

Trademarks: Many brand name items found while dumpster diving still have valid trademarks. Reselling trademarked items without permission for profit could lead to civil lawsuits for trademark infringement or counterfeiting. This is most commonly an issue when reselling trademarked goods online. When reselling, avoid using brand name keywords and disclose that the item was found as-is.

Safety regulations: Some products like food, cosmetics, and medical items have expiration dates and are regulated. It is usually illegal to resell anything past expiration, even if it was found in a dumpster. Certain industries also prohibit the resale of discarded goods due to safety liability concerns.

Platforms for Reselling 

There are several platforms that are commonly used to resell dumpster dived goods, each with their own regulations:

eBay: Disclose items that are as-is/for parts to avoid legal liability. Avoid listing brand names in titles to prevent trademark removal. 

Facebook Marketplace: Allows selling used goods. Disclose dumpster find status. Meet locally for sales.

Craigslist: Allows as-is and dumpster find sales as long as legal and ethical guidelines are followed. Meet locally. 

Amazon: Requires authorization to resell trademarked goods. Disclose “like new” items are dumpster finds to avoid liability.

In-person sales: Farmers markets, flea markets, and garage sales allow flexible reselling of found goods. Disclose status.

When reselling dumpster finds, it’s essential to follow platform guidelines, disclose the as-is status of items, and avoid illegally reselling regulated goods. This helps avoid legal issues and keeps dumpster diving profits ethical.

Food Safety

Special care must be taken to avoid illness when dumpster diving for food. Here are some tips for safely assessing food finds:

Assessing Edibility 

  • Check for signs of spoilage like mold, unpleasant odors, sliminess, or discoloration. Trust your senses.
  • Avoid foods like raw meat, fish, eggs, and dairy, as these spoil quickly outside refrigeration.
  • Canned goods that aren’t swollen, rusted, or severely dented are likely still safe.  
  • Packaged foods may still be edible if well sealed and not past a clear expiration date.
  • Baked goods may still be fresh a day or two after being discarded.
  • Produce that is a bit overripe but not molded is OK to eat if peeled or cooked.

Proper Storage and Preparation

  • Keep foods separated by type and storage needs. Refrigerate perishables immediately.
  • Don’t store food that needs refrigeration more than 2 hours unchilled.
  • When in doubt, remember the old adage “When in doubt, throw it out.”
  • Wash all foods before eating, including rinds and peels if used. Wash hands thoroughly.
  • Cook foods like meat thoroughly to kill any bacteria before consuming.
  • Avoid eating raw eggs, raw dough, or raw meat found dumpster diving.  

With good judgment, dumpstered food can safely be assessed for freshness and edibility. Proper handling, storage, and cooking helps reduce risks as well.

Biggest Wastes in Tennessee

Tennessee sees its fair share of waste, especially around major holidays and events when stores and companies ramp up inventory. By understanding when and where the biggest wastes occur, dumpster divers can increase their chances of finding usable goods. 

Some of the biggest sources of waste in Tennessee include:

  • Grocery stores – Grocery stores tend to waste huge amounts of still-edible food as they try to keep shelves freshly stocked. The days before holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas are especially fruitful. Divers may find large quantities of produce, baked goods, dairy items, meat, and shelf-stable goods. 
  • Big box retailers – Stores like Walmart, Target, and Best Buy receive such high volumes of inventory that waste is inevitable. Seasonal items, returned electronics, and overstocked goods often get tossed out in waves. Visiting dumpsters after holidays and inventory events can yield major scores.
  • Colleges and universities – At the end of spring and fall semesters, universities dispose of tons of usable items as students move out of dorms. Divers can often find clothes, furniture, electronics, appliances, household goods, and more. Move out weeks are the best times to check campus dumpsters.
  • Construction sites – Construction crews frequently discard excess materials and items that arrived damaged. Scrap wood, tools, wire, pipes, hardware, and more can often be salvaged from construction dumpsters if sorted through carefully.

With a bit of luck and good timing, dumpster divers in Tennessee can gain access to all kinds of free, usable goods if they know when and where to search based on high wastage events and seasons.

Selling Vs. Donating Finds

When dumpster diving, you may come across items that are still in great shape but that you don’t need yourself. You then have the choice to either sell these items for profit, or donate them to charity. There are pros and cons to each approach.

Selling Dumpster Finds

Selling your dumpster finds can be a great way to offset the costs of gas and time spent diving. Items like unopened makeup, unused electronics, and packaged foods can potentially sell for a good amount on sites like eBay and Facebook Marketplace. You can also arrange to sell locally through Craigslist. 

The downside to selling is that it takes more time and effort to photograph items, create listings, arrange meetups, and ship products if needed. There are fees to sell on many platforms too. You’ll also need to report profits on your taxes if you earn over $600 from reselling dumpster finds.

Donating Finds

Donating your excess dumpster finds to charity is a simple option requiring less time and effort. Many charities like Goodwill will accept donations of packaged foods, toiletries, clothing, housewares, books, toys, and more. 

The benefit of donating is that you avoid paying taxes on profits, and you can get a tax deduction for the estimated value of your donated items. Donating also helps those in need and keeps items out of landfills. However, you lose the potential income you could have earned reselling finds.

Good options for donating items include Goodwill, Salvation Army, food banks, shelters, thrift stores, and non-profits like Habitat for Humanity. Be sure to call ahead to ensure they accept the types of items you plan to donate.

Advice For Beginners

If you’re new to dumpster diving, it’s best to start slow and play it safe as you learn the ropes. Here are some tips for beginners:

  • Join local dumpster diving groups on Facebook or online forums to connect with more experienced divers. They can provide valuable advice and may allow you to join them on dives. Always go with a buddy when starting out.
  • Start with dumpsters that are more beginner-friendly. Retail locations like Ulta, Bath and Body Works, game stores, craft stores, and bookstores often have lightly damaged goods that get tossed. Grocery store dumpsters can also have lots of edible food, just check for signs of spoilage. 
  • Go for your first few dives during the day, as it’s easier to see what you’re doing. Bring a flashlight for peering into dumpsters and bags. Wear old clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty.
  • Make a list of potential spots you want to check and go down the list systematically. Pay attention to days when stores seem to put stuff out. Don’t stay too long at any one dumpster or make a huge mess.
  • Bring gloves and grabbers to inspect and remove items safely without cutting yourself on broken glass or touching anything gross. Have bags ready to load anything useful into.
  • Start by grabbing only the cleanest, most appealing items. Leave stuff that could be stained, broken, or missing pieces. Work your way up to more “experience required” items as you gain confidence.
  • Be prepared to walk away empty-handed, especially as you’re scoping new spots. Patience and persistence pay off. The more dives you go on, the better luck you’ll have. Stay safe and have fun!

Conclusion

Dumpster diving in Tennessee can be a fun and rewarding experience if done legally and ethically. This guide has covered the key points to keep in mind:

  • Dumpster diving is legal in Tennessee as long as you avoid trespassing on private property and don’t violate any local ordinances. Stick to public dumpsters or get permission first.
  • Be safe by going during daylight, wearing gloves, and being aware of your surroundings. Look out for sharps or other dangerous items.
  • Retail locations like grocery stores, department stores, and big box stores tend to have the most wastage and best finds. Move quickly and be discreet. 
  • You can find all kinds of goods dumpster diving, from food to furniture to electronics. Inspect items closely and clean or repair as needed before using.
  • Remember to dive ethically by not making a mess, taking more than you need, or selling unsafe foods. Consider donating some finds to charity.
  • Consider the environmental benefits of dumpster diving and reducing waste. But also be aware of the time commitment required.

For beginners looking to start dumpster diving in Tennessee, focus on public dumpsters first and team up with an experienced diver to learn. With some common sense and the tips in this guide, you can dive safely while scoring great reusable finds. Just remember to tread lightly and be respectful. Happy diving!

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