Dumpster diving is generally not illegal in Maine, provided that you are not trespassing on private property or violating any local city/town ordinances or posted signage such as “No Trespassing”.
State-wide Legality
- There is no specific Maine law prohibiting dumpster diving, and the 1988 Supreme Court case California v. Greenwood established that it is technically legal in all states unless there are local ordinances to the contrary.
- Once trash is placed on public property (like a curb), it is considered public domain, making it legal to take.
Local Ordinances & Property Rights
- While there’s no “sweeping law” in Maine that forbids dumpster diving, cities, towns, and property owners can restrict or prohibit it through local rules or posted signs.
- Entering fenced, locked, or clearly marked areas without permission may lead to trespassing charges.
Practical Considerations
- Dumpster diving is legal on public property, but avoid diving into dumpsters on private property, especially if there are chains, locks, fences, or “No Trespassing” signs—doing so can result in criminal charges.
- Divers should also be aware of the health hazards associated with rummaging through garbage.
Dumpster diving in Maine is legal unless you are trespassing or violating local ordinances—always check local town/city rules and respect private property and posted signage.
Sources
(https://q1065.fm/illegal-to-dumpster-dive-in-maine/)
(https://www.reddit.com/r/Maine/comments/t4o3og/is_dumpster_diving_in_maine_legal/)
(https://92moose.fm/is-dumpster-diving-legal-in-maine/)
(https://www.legalmatch.com/law-library/article/is-dumpster-diving-illegal.html)
(https://wcyy.com/is-dumpster-diving-legal-in-maine/)
