Dumpster diving, also known as skipping, is the act of retrieving discarded items from a dumpster or skip. It is usually done for either financial or environmental reasons. In Chicago, IL, there are many places to dumpster dive. From grocery stores to clothing shops, there are plenty of opportunities to find what you’re looking for. In this blog post, we will explore some of the best places to dumpster dive in Chicago, IL. We will also provide some tips and tricks on how to make the most out of your dumpster diving experience.
Dumpster Diving Laws in Chicago, IL
There are no specific laws in Chicago, IL that pertain to dumpster diving, however, there are a few general laws that could apply. For example, it is illegal to trespass on private property without the owner’s permission. Additionally, it is also against the law to litter or dump garbage on public or private property.
On the other hand, in order to dumpster dive in the public property and city-owned dumpsters of Chicago, you will need to apply for a Private Scavenger License. This implies that if you don’t have a license before diving in, you could end up paying a lot of money in fines.
Getting a permit is quite straightforward. Simply follow the application’s instructions, supply all required information, and pay $250.00 for a two-year permit. When you consider it, that charge is a fraction of what you may face if you were caught diving dumpsters without permission.
While there are no specific laws prohibiting dumpster diving, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and to take caution when entering unfamiliar territory. Dumpsters can contain sharp objects or hazardous materials that can be dangerous if not handled properly. It is always best to err on the side of caution and to get permission from the property owner before diving into a dumpster.
Related: Dumpster Diving in Illinois: An Ultimate Guide
Is Dumpster Diving Illegal in Chicago, IL?
While dumpster diving is not technically illegal, there are some laws and regulations in Chicago, IL that you should be aware of before you start rummaging through the city’s trash.
First, it is important to know that it is illegal to trespass on private property in order to access a dumpster. If you are caught trespassing, you could be fined or even arrested.
Secondly, while it is not against the law to take items from a dumpster, it is considered theft if the value of the item(s) taken exceeds $500. If you are caught stealing from a dumpster, you could be charged with a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the value of the item(s) stolen.
Lastly, you will need to apply for a Private Scavenger License before diving into public or city-owned dumpsters. Additionally, it is also important to be aware of your surroundings when dumpster diving. There may be hazardous materials in some dumpsters, so it is important to exercise caution when rummaging through them. If you come across anything dangerous, do not touch it and contact the authorities immediately.
As long as you are aware of these laws and regulations, dumpster diving can be a great way to find hidden treasures in Chicago’s trash!
Is Dumpster Diving at night Illegal in Chicago, IL?
In Chicago, dumpster diving at night is not illegal. In truth, the restrictions are the same whether you dive into dumpsters during the day or at night. Going trash scavenging in residential areas at night, on the other hand, appears to be fairly risky. There’s a good chance a cop may be dispatched to your location. In addition, trash diving late at night in Chicago attracts a lot more people. Because they prefer seclusion, most dumpster divers prefer to go dumpster diving at night. Dumpster diving in Chicago is best done early in the morning or just after sunrise, in my opinion.
Best Places to Dumpster Dive in Chicago, IL?
Chicago, IL is one of the best places to dumpster dive! There are a ton of great places to find free stuff, and the city is large enough that you’re bound to find something new every time you go diving.
Here are some of our favorite places to dumpster dive in Chicago:
- The alleys near Wrigley Field
- The trash cans near Navy Pier
- Anywhere in Chinatown
- The L station at Fullerton
How much money can you make by dumpster diving in Chicago, IL?
The average person in Chicago, IL can make around $100-$200 per week dumpster diving. This amount can vary depending on the type of dive, how often you go out, and what you find. For example, if you are only diving once a week and finding small items such as clothes or food, you will make less money than if you were to dive multiple times a week and find larger items such as furniture or electronics.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to dumpster diving, Chicago is one of the best places to be. There are so many opportunities to find good food and other items that you would otherwise have to pay for.
However, there are a few things to keep in mind when dumpster diving in Chicago. First, always be aware of your surroundings and who else is around. There have been reports of people being attacked while dumpster diving, so it’s important to be aware of your surroundings.
Second, always wear gloves when you’re rummaging through the dumpster. There’s no telling what you’ll come across, and you don’t want to get any kind of infection or disease.
Third, make sure you know what you’re looking for before you start going through the garbage. It can be easy to get sidetracked and end up with a bunch of stuff you don’t need or want.
Finally, always be respectful of the property around the dumpster. Don’t make too much noise and try to leave the area cleaner than when you found it.
If you follow these tips, then dumpster diving in Chicago can be a great experience. You can find some amazing deals on food and other items, just be sure to stay safe and respect the property around you.
