Dumpster diving has become popular over the years in most states of which Michigan is not left out.
Have you been considering starting a dumpster diving quest?
Are curious about knowing all about dumpster diving in Minnesota and the laws behind it?
Then you are in the right place. In this article, you will find all you need to know about dumpster diving in Minnesota.
Dumpster Diving in Minnesota
Minnesota, also known as the North Star State, has made its way into one of the most famous states in the United States for dumpster diving.
With 17 large shopping malls with over 2500 plus stores operating in them, coupled with thousands of apartments, Minnesota offers all you need as a dumpster diver.
Some notable cities like Lowry Hill, East Isles, Fuller Tangletown, Linden Hills, Downtown East, Fulton, East Calhoun, etc are places where there is a high level of dumpster diving.
For your dumpster diving quest, Minnesota is a place to consider, as there are stores, malls, houses, etc. there.
Is Dumpster Diving Legal In Minnesota?
Dumpster diving is legal in Minnesota. There is no law that prohibits dumpster diving in the state.
However, each city in Minnesota can formulate laws regarding dumpster diving if it affects the city at large. That is why it is essential to know the ordinances of each city before dumpster diving.
All the firms or companies in Minnesota are considered private property, which requires permits before gaining access to their trash cans.
Dumpster diving without a permit can lead to getting charged with trespassing, loitering, etc. These charges can have heavy fines or jail terms attached to them.
Also, you can be fined for entering a property with a NO TRESPASSING sign in place.
In most of the cities in Minnesota, searching through trash cans placed in public places is not against the law. As long as it is in a public location, there is no ownership right over it.
Is Dumpster Diving Legal In Woodbury?
In Woodbury, it is illegal to scavenge under the laws and ordinances of the city. Going through the trash cans in this city will get you in trouble, as it is against the law.
You should reconsider going to Woodbury to dumpster dive to avoid charges and fines.
Is Dumpster Diving Legal In Minneapolis?
There are no laws against dumpster diving in Minneapolis, only that you will be charged and fined if caught on private property.
If you are caught trespassing on a property with a NO TRESPASSING sign, you will be charged with trespassing and fined based on the incident.
You can be fined for loitering in Minneapolis. Therefore, it is essential that you watch out for a NO TRESPASSING sign or stay away from dumpster diving on private property.
Is Dumpster Diving Legal In Rochester?
In Rochester, dumpster diving is legal as there is no law under the city’s ordinance stating that it is illegal to dumpster dive in Rochester.
However, most of the dumpsters in Rochester are placed on private properties with a NO TRESPASSING sign.
Going into these private properties to dumpster dive is considered as illegal as you could be charged with trespassing, loitering, etc.
Is Dumpster Diving Legal at Night in Minnesota?
The law is the law irrespective of the time of the day. The law regards dumpster diving in Minnesota is the same even at night.
Scavenging at night is not illegal, but can be dangerous, even though most dumpster divers prefer to go scavenging at night.
The competition is high, you might be attacked by animals, and the cops can be involved if you are scavenging in a residential area.
Always watch out for a NO TRESPASSING sign, as it might not be visible at night.
If asked, the best time to go dumpster diving is early in the morning because most stores dump their refuse around that time.
How much can you make as a dumpster diver in Minnesota?
The amount you make either daily, weekly or monthly depends on the kind of things you pick up in the trash cans and the time you put into it
As a dumpster diver, you can pick up groceries, electronics, gadgets, and furniture to resell and make money. Although, these recyclables are worth more than each other.
With full-time scavenging, you can make up to $3000 to $4000 per month. That is evidence that it is possible to earn a living as a dumpster diver in Minnesota if time is invested in it.
Where to Dumpster Dive in Minnesota
Minnesota is a state you should have in mind when you want to start your dumpster diving quest.
Below are some of the places you can visit:
- Retail Stores(Walmart, Target, etc.
- Grocery Stores
- Video Game Stores
- Cosmetic Stores
- Yard Sales
- Construction Sites, etc
Related: Dumpster diving in Tennessee
Tips to Ensure Safety for Dumpster Divers
Dumpster diving can be a dirty thing to engage in but it is highly rewarding. With adequate carefulness and precautions, you will be untouchable.
Below are some of the safety tips:
- Always wear clothes that cover your body I.e clothes that protect your skin. You can put on gloves, shoes that cover your toes, etc.
- Do not go scavenging at night in a neighborhood you do not know. It might expose you to risks that could be costly.
- Always carry a flashlight with you and try as much as possible to go dumpster diving in the daytime.
- Never break open a locked gate or trash can as it could get you charged. Look out for a NO TRESPASSING sign before entering a property.
- Always leave when you are asked to peacefully. Leaving with violence could get you charged with disorder behavior.
- Clean up the mess made after searching through the trash can to avoid being charged with littering.
Final Thoughts
Dumpster diving in Minnesota is legal, but each city in Minnesota has the right to make its own law as it deems fit.
That is why it is very important to be aware of the laws governing the city you are in before you start dumpster diving.
Adhere to safety tips and precautions to avoid attacks and getting charged with trespassing, loitering, etc.
Minnesota is definitely a place you would like to start your quest.