Would it be against the law to take recyclable cans from the yard and driveway of a deceased person’s home?
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Would it be against the law to take recyclable cans from the yard and driveway of a deceased person’s home?
A man in community passed away approximately 3 months ago and there has been nobody
at his residence to clean up the place or remove his personal items. There are several bags of recyclable cans outside in the yard and driveway. A few of the bags are now coming apart and cans are blowing around yard and driveway. Most are still intact. Would it be against the law of I were to collect those cans and bottles and returned them to the recycling center?
Asked on June 24, 2016 under Real Estate Law, Oregon
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 7 years ago | Contributor
If the bags, etc. on his property, technically you will be trespassing and stealing--they are still his (or in this case, his estate's)--though it's not clear if anyone will notice or care, or who would take action if they did notice or care. If the bags, etc. were by the curb, at that time, anyone could take them.
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