SAN CLEMENTE : New Law Targets Theft of Recyclables
Anyone caught stealing recyclable materials out of city bins could be hit with a fine under a new city law.
The ordinance, which the City Council gave preliminary approval this month, calls for a $50 fine for “unauthorized removal” of aluminum, glass and other materials from the bins. It also sets a $100 fine for misuse of the bins. However, the ordinance will not make it illegal to scavenge from refuse containers.
The new law was established after residents complained that people from outside their neighborhood were stealing aluminum cans and other recyclable materials from bins. San Clemente is currently operating a pilot recycling program for 1,000 homes.
“The program relies on these recycling revenues,” said Michael Morgan, city solid waste manager. “Scavenging of the bins could affect the economics of the program.”
The pilot program is tentatively scheduled to be extended to the rest of the city later this year and city officials wanted the ordinance in place before the expansion occurred.
The City Council is expected to give final approval to the ordinance on Wednesday, after which the law will take effect.
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