Are you looking to get into dumpster diving in North Carolina?
This venture was once illegal in some US states, but it now appears to be legal in all 50 states.
However, it being legal does not mean it does not come with rules. North Carolina is one of the states that does not entirely welcome dumpster diving and has some particular regulations around it.
This is why the question, “Is dumpster diving illegal in North Carolina?” is common.
Read on as we dive deeper into this.
Is Dumpster Diving Illegal in North Carolina?
The simple answer would be “no.”
But a more helpful answer would be, “It depends on where you do it.”
Dumpster diving in North Carolina is a delicate issue because of the varying laws on trespassing.
You cannot go dumpster diving on anything considered private property because you could get charged with trespassing. Yes, you can get charged even for picking items already thrown out. So be careful before you venture out.
You, however, can do it in public places because no one can claim it.
Best Places to Dumpster Dive in North Carolina
Dumpster diving in NC can be lucrative if you know where to do it.
The cities in the state have some of the biggest and most well-set up malls, which make it very easy for dump divers to get a chance to go through items disposed of in their favorite stores.
Some of the best places to go dumpster diving in North Carolina include:
- Malls,
- Retail stores such as Walmart, Target
- Bakeries and cafes,
- Beauty and cosmetic stores,
- Construction sites,
- Garage and yard sales,
- Electronic stores,
- Pet stores,
- College campuses
- Garbage pick-up points for apartment complexes.
It also turns out people are making it big dumpster diving in the more affluent neighborhoods of North Carolina, such as:
- Cary,
- Apex,
- Weddington,
- Pinehurst
- Marvin.
While at this, do not try to dumpster dive for anything that is still inside a private property or has a “no trespassing” sign. Focus on what is in public spaces to be on the safe side. If you do it on private property, you may be prosecuted for trespassing, theft, illegal conduct or littering.
Also read: How to start a Dog Bakery Business at Home.
Why is Dumpster Diving Illegal in North Carolina?
While the venture is not exactly illegal, you should not know the boundaries of doing it in North Carolina.
Every private premise and company is considered private property in North Carolina.
You can dumpster dive on public property, but you should know where to draw a line lest you get on the wrong side of the law because trespassing laws in NC are strict.
Trespassing Laws in North Carolina
Breaking trespassing laws in NC can have serious consequences, which include fines, imprisonment and permanent criminal record.
And, yes, you can be prosecuted for trespassing even if there was “no trespassing” sign. You could be arrested if there is a clear sign of the owner securing their property.
Ignoring verbal warnings from the owner could also have you arrested and charged.
Is dumpster diving illegal in Greensboro, North Carolina?
Dumpster diving is not illegal in Greensboro and Winston-Salem. It is, in fact, encouraged to prevent valuable items such as furniture from finding their way in landfills.
If you are in Greensboro, you can find ideal places by searching for “ best places to dumpster dive near me” and see how lucky you can get.
You may also like: Is selling feet pics dangerous?
How Much Money Can You Make Dumpster Diving In North Carolina?
This question largely depends on how you do it and why you are doing it.
Some people dumpster-dive to get household items for themselves, some to donate, and a larger group to resell the items.
If you are selling, it would also depend on many other factors. And luck is a huge factor because you compete with many other dumpster divers.
On some days, you may be lucky to find valuables; on others, you may be unlucky to find only trash.
In short, it is not a venture with a steady income flow because you never know what you will find.
Professional dumpster divers, diving and selling part-time or full-time report to make $15,000 -$100,000 per year. It is a wide range because, again, it depends on luck.
How To Find the Best Deals Dumpster Diving
The secret to successful dumpster diving is finding suitable locations and knowing the right days and times.
According to Vine Disposal, the best days to dumpster diving in retail outlets and grocery stores are Tuesdays and Fridays. They mention that these are the days the stores restock their products and eliminate some of what has yet to sell.
If you are into doing it in residential neighborhoods, you are better off doing it at the end of the month. This is when people buy new furniture and dispose of their old ones. It is also when people move in and out of their apartments and dispose of things on their way out.
Also, many people prefer to dumpster dive at night for their own safety.
However, for grocery stores and retail outlets, it is better to go in the morning as this is when they usually restock and dispose of things.
Remember, the earlier, the better for you.
Final Thoughts: Is Dumpster Diving Illegal in NC?
There we go for dumpster diving in North Carolina.
The venture is legal and can earn money only if you abide by the strict trespassing rules in NC.
Do not trespass into private property, as it could have you charged with theft. Do not attempt to cut wires or fences to access trash bins. Only take advantage of what is accessible to you in public spaces.
Good luck finding the best places to dumpster dive in North Carolina!
