Dumpster diving is legal in New Hampshire, but there are some important considerations to keep in mind:
Legal Status
Dumpster diving is not prohibited by any state law in New Hampshire. In fact, it is perfectly permitted under state regulations.
This aligns with the 1988 Supreme Court ruling in California v. Greenwood, which established that searching through trash is legal at the federal level as long as it doesn’t conflict with local ordinances.
Important Restrictions
While dumpster diving itself is legal, there are some key limitations:
Private Property: Diving in dumpsters on private property without permission could result in trespassing charges. This includes dumpsters at businesses or on residential property.
Public Property: Dumpsters on public property, like curbside trash pickup areas, are generally fair game for diving.
Signage: If there’s a clearly visible “No Trespassing” sign, diving in that dumpster could lead to trespassing charges.
Local Ordinances: While legal at the state level, individual cities or towns may have their own restrictions on dumpster diving. It’s important to check local regulations.
Best Practices
To stay on the right side of the law when dumpster diving in New Hampshire:
- Stick to public property dumpsters unless you have explicit permission.
- Respect “No Trespassing” signs and locked/fenced dumpsters.
- Don’t make a mess or cause property damage.
- If asked to leave, do so promptly and politely.
By following these guidelines, you can engage in dumpster diving legally and responsibly in New Hampshire.
Source
- https://wokq.com/dumpster-diving-legal-in-new-hampshire/
- https://wokq.com/dumpster-diving-new-hampshire-illegal/
- https://92moose.fm/is-dumpster-diving-legal-in-maine/