Can People In Michigan Toss Dog Poop Into Your Garbage Can?

Most people would agree, if you're going to take your dog on a walk then you should also bring poop bags along to clean up after them.

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But when the duty is done, does it matter where you toss out the bag?

Can People In Michigan Toss Dog Poop Into Your Garbage Can?

The safe answer is no, it is generally illegal in Michigan to dispose of dog poop in someone else's garbage can without their permission.

According to Michigan's Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, Section 11514, certain materials are prohibited from being disposed of in non-hazardous solid waste landfills, which includes pet waste.

While the law does not explicitly mention putting pet waste in residential garbage cans, it is considered illegal dumping or littering.

Many local municipalities in Michigan also have ordinances prohibiting the disposal of pet waste in public areas or on private property without the owner's consent.

For example, the City of Ann Arbor has an ordinance stating

"No person shall deposit or cause to be deposited any dog excrement upon any public or private property, other than their own, without the permission of the owner or person in control of such property."

There are several reasons why disposing of dog poop in a neighbor's garbage can be problematic:

• It can create odors and mess, especially if the bag leaks or tears.
• It poses a potential health hazard from bacteria like E. coli if the waste contaminates the can.
• It is considered trespassing and illegal dumping on private property without permission.

The proper way to dispose of dog poop is to bag it and either place it in your own trash can at home, or use a designated pet waste station or public garbage can.

I don't understand why people have an issue as long as the dog poop is inside of a bag.

Now if someone just tosses a random turd into my garbage can then we've got a problem.