How To Keep Others From Using Your Dumpster

Unwanted dumping is a common problem for many dumpster renters. An empty dumpster can be a siren song for people looking for a quick place to unload their junk. Unfortunately, legitimate users often pay for it through additional pickup requests and additional dumpster fees, which could range from $15 to $350 according to CostHelper. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to stop unwanted dumping in its tracks and keep your dumpster available for your usage only.

Keep It on Private Property

The best way to deter unwanted dumping is to keep your dumpster on your own private property whenever possible. Most neighbors will think twice about entering your property just to use your dumpster without asking, especially if there's a locked gate in the way. Others with fewer scruples will have to trespass your property just to get to the dumpster, which makes what they're doing illegal in the eyes of the law.

If the property itself isn't fenced or gated off, you can surround your dumpster with a secure fence perimeter. Combined with a locking gate, this secure perimeter will discourage all but the most determined of dumpers from doing their thing.

Shed a Little Light on the Situation

A darkened dumpster makes a perfect target for neighbors and others who want to dispose of their unwanted junk under the cover of darkness. For this reason, you'll want to keep your dumpster well-lit at all times. Keeping a bright spotlight on your dumpster will discourage people who don't want to be seen while using your dumpster without permission.

A brightly-lit dumpster becomes an even more effective deterrent when combined with surveillance equipment, especially if the dumpster can be seen from the road and/or other neighbors' properties. A visible security camera not only offers a deterrent of its own, but it can also record those who try to use your dumpster without permission. In most cases, this gives you plenty of evidence to present to your local authorities if need be.

Keep It Under Wraps

Keeping your dumpster covered when it's not in use offers an excellent deterrent to unwanted dumping. In addition, it also keeps debris from blowing out and away on windy days and it keeps animals from getting into your dumpster. It'll also keep your debris from getting drenched during unexpected downpours.

In most cases, a plastic tarp or canvas secured by a few bungie cords is usually enough to cover up your dumpster. This works to your advantage when it comes to unwanted dumpers who want to get in and out quickly. When confronted with the potentially time-consuming prospect of undoing bungie cords and pulling away tarps, they'll likely choose an easier target.

Make a Preemptive Loading Strike

Try to fill up your dumpster as soon as it arrives on-site. This preemptive step can help discourage illegal dumping simply by leaving less space for dumpers to toss their unwanted goods. Combined with proper surveillance, this can help prevent others from using your dumpster without asking beforehand.

Keep Dwell Times to a Minimum

The longer you have your dumpster, the more likely it is that someone will try to use it without your permission. Before you rent your dumpster, consider how long you'll need to use it and schedule a pickup date in the shortest amount of time possible. This way, you can reduce the amount of time your dumpster spends on-site.

Avoid renting a dumpster if you're going on vacation or if you'll be away from your property for a long period of time. By the time you get back, your dumpster may already be filled to the brim with other peoples' unwanted junk. For more information, check out websites like http://www.espwaste.com.