Anti-Scavenging Ordinance

Illegal Scavenging of Recyclable Materials

On January 18, 2011, the City Council adopted Ordinance 561, establishing provisions for the regulation and citation of individuals who remove recyclable materials from curbside receptacles without the permission of the residents, businesses, or authorized refuse collector.

What Does the Ordinance Prohibit?

The ordinance makes the unauthorized removal of recyclable materials from curbside receptacles, an infraction punishable by a fine of $100 for first time offenders, $200 for a second offense in the same year, and $500 for a third offense within 12 months of the second infraction.

Report Theft of Recyclables

Foster City's Ordinance is enforced by the Foster City Police Department. If you witness illegal scavenging, please call the Foster City Police Department at (650) 286-3300.

More Information

For more information, please view the City's ordinance: Foster City Municipal Code Section 8.07.040—Scavenging.

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