Is It Illegal To Throw Trash In Someone’s Else’s Dumpster In North Dakota?

I get it, sometimes our trash cans just don't cut it, and it can be a hassle taking things all the way out to the landfill/recycling center, so maybe you slipped a few bags into a nearby dumpster.

While it might seem harmless enough to you, the owners of that dumpster probably find it rude and inconsiderate. It gives them less room to use it; this is especially 'uncool' because, well, they're the ones paying for the dumpster/waste management services.

(Also Read: How To Report Potholes In Bismarck, Fargo, & Other North Dakota Cities)

According to nextdaydumpsters.com, it adds extra weight, but it could also put them over the weight limit, which could result in additional fees to the renter.

You often see local restaurants with gates and locks on their dumpsters; this is to keep people from filling them up. That and it helps keep animals out.

Is It Illegal?

There are municipal codes in many/most North Dakota cities that state dumping your trash in someone else's dumpster is illegal.

Chapter 14 of Minot's Municipal code states, "It is unlawful for a person to dispose of waste into dumpsters at locations not located on property they own, lease, or rent.

According to the Grand Forks Herald, in East Grand Forks, it is illegal to put trash into someone else's dumpster or trash can. If a person is caught doing this, they could get fined up to $700, according to the source. 

For the most part, laws and city codes prohibit using other people's trash cans and dumpsters. To be safe and considerate,  I wouldn't do it. It's certainly not worth getting fined $500-$700.

If you need additional trash services, contact your local waste management companies.