In an effort to discourage scavenging of recyclables from waste bins, the City of West Hollywood has created an Anti-Scavenging Program. Part of the Anti-Scavenging Program will include the placement of anti-scavenging decals on waste bins by Athens Services. Scavenging of recyclables is not only a nuisance but a major concern which includes problems such as waste containers being left open, waste strewn about the surrounding areas and attracting unwanted animals and pests as well as identity theft. According to the Washington Post, although identity theft numbers are down since 2009, more than 8 million people were victimized last year with overall losses from identity fraud calculated at $37 billion.

With identity theft presenting itself as a national epidemic, the City of West Hollywood has created several tips to help protect West Hollywood residents from both waste bin scavenging and identity theft. Tips include: 

• Give attention to waste bin placement and storage. Consider placing bins at the curb as late as possible. The longer bins are out, the greater the opportunity for scavenging.
• Take note of allowed placement hours. Bins may be placed curbside no sooner than 5:30 p.m. the day before collection and must be removed by 8 p.m. the day of collection. 
• Consider storing bins out of view, behind a gate, fence, or hedge. Locking gates or fences are most effective. 
• Shred all papers with personal information, credit card solicitations, and old credit cards.
• Opt out of pre-approved credit offers by calling (888) 5-OPT-OUT. 
• Promote public safety by posting “No Trespassing” signs. Signs may be obtained from the City’s Office of Environmental Services at (323) 848-6404. 
• To assist the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department in the immediate arrest and prosecution of trespassers, a Letter of Agency must be on file at the West Hollywood Sheriff’s Station. Letter of Agency forms are available from the City’s Office of Environmental Services or at www.weho.org For more information regarding Letter of Agency, please contact the West Hollywood COPPS Team at (310) 855-8850, ext. 456 
• Call the West Hollywood Sheriff’s Station if you observe scavenging or trespassing. Call (310) 855-8850. Do not get personally involved.

For more information regarding the City’s Anti-Scavenging Program, please call the Office of Environmental Services at, (323) 848-6404. For the deaf and hard of hearing, please call (323) 848-6496.