Saint Louis County Cracks Down On Tresspassing And Thefts At Solid Waste Sites; A Reminder Of The Policy And Guidelines

A bad economy, an increase in drug crimes, and warmer summer months have seen an increase of tresspassing and theft situations at solid waste sites throughout Saint Louis County.  Officials with the county remind residents that access to these sites is only permitted during normal business hours and that there are strict guidelines as they pertain to salvaging materials.

Removing waste materials without a signed waiver is a crime and violators will be prosecuted.  This measure is largely in place to protect people from potential injury.

Residents within the St. Louis County Solid Waste Management Area are allowed to salvage scrap metal, wood and other reusable items from County solid waste sites during normal business hours, provided the following conditions are met:

• The customer must sign a salvaging “Waiver of Liability” before salvaging any material. A new waiver is required for each item.
• Only one party may salvage at a time.
• Salvaging is limited to 15 minutes per day.
• Salvaging is permitted only in designated areas. Salvaging is prohibited in the landfill or from waste containers.
• Salvaging is only allowed during normal business hours. If attendant does not have the time to monitor the activity, salvaging will not be permitted at that time.
• Salvaging is allowed only if items are within easy reach. Climbing on the scrap pile is prohibited.
• Dismantling of items on site is not allowed. If a part of an item is desired, the whole item must be removed from the solid waste site for dismantling. Remaining parts must be properly disposed of after dismantling.
• Any mess created during salvaging must be remedied by the customer.
• Bulk salvaging of items for scrap value is prohibited.
• Salvaging is conducted at customers’ own risk. The County assumes no responsibility for injuries occurring during salvaging or through use of salvaged item.
• Salvaging must be conducted in a courteous and environmentally protective manner.
• Any violation of the above rules may result in salvaging rights being revoked.

For information about Solid Waste Sites, visit the Saint Louis County website or call 1-800-450-9278.