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Dear City of Frostburg,

I am looking for guidance regarding an ongoing issue involving the disposal of dog waste bags in privately owned trash cans that have been placed at the curb for trash collection.

Is it legal, or otherwise permitted, for someone to place a bag of dog waste into another resident’s private trash can while it is on the sidewalk or street for collection?

The concern is not simply the use of the can itself, but rather the practical problems that result. Garbage collection does not always completely empty cans, especially when bags are loose or lightweight. In many cases, the trash is removed while small dog waste bags remain behind. These bags are often deposited after the trash has already been collected, meaning they can remain in the bottom of the can for an entire week. It is then up to the owner of the trash can to dispose of the bag or they start collecting and the smell is horrific.

If unnoticed, additional trash placed into the can can rupture the bag, creating an unpleasant and unsanitary mess that the owner of the can must clean themselves. Rain can also cause leaking, and occasionally the bags fall into the street after collection, creating hazards and leaving residents to clean up waste that does not belong to them.

After speaking with some neighbors, it appears this has become a common nuisance in the area. It seems wrong that we are left cleaning up other people's dog poop because they are using our trash cans. I would appreciate any clarification regarding applicable ordinances, policies, or recommendations from the City on how situations like this should be handled.

Thank you for your time and guidance.

Sincerely,

Jason Speights
39 S. Water St.
Frostburg, MD