Illegal donation bins lead to litter. Here’s how you can help.

Illegal donation bins lead to litter. Here's how you can help.

Published on March 24, 2023

Driving through retail parking lots, it's common to see large, unmanned donation bins that encourage residents to donate items to worthy causes. Although they look legitimate, that's not always the case.

Here's the problem:In most instances, donation bins are managed and maintained by private, for-profit organizations not associated with the retail store where they are located. Before any donation bin is legally placed into service, two requirements must be met. The first is an agreement and approval between private property owners and donation bin owners. The second is anapplicationfor aSpecial Exception Permit from the Board of Adjustment.

Unfortunately, when donation bins are placed on private property without the permission of the owner or the proper permit, issues can arise. A few examples include overflowing; bins becoming illegal dumping sites for unwanted items; or rummaging by people experiencing homelessness.

All of that can result in litter being spread around the city.

How you can help

If a donation bin is damaged, not maintained or overflowing with items outside of the bin, report it to the City's Customer Care line at 817-392-1234. It can also be reported on the MyFW app under the "Code Enforcement Zoning" option. The MyFW app is free to download and available from the App Store and Google Play.

Although people give with the intent of being charitable, most donation bins belong to companies that are making a profit from the donated wares. Help keep Fort Worth clean by making donations directly to nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations, such as the United Way or a local faith-based organization.

How the City responds

Upon receiving a call or report, Fort Worth's Code Compliance Department investigates to determine if the donation bins are legally placed and are properly maintained with no accumulation of waste around them. If the bin is illegal, a written notice is sent to both the property owner and the donation bin owner to remove the bin.

Citations can be issued to both parties if the donation bin owner doesn't respond to the City's request after an adequate removal time has elapsed. If unresolved, private property owners may choose to have the donation bin removed. Code Compliance officers will work with the property owner to reach a resolution.

A donation bin found within a city right-of-way will be removed by the Code Compliance Department. The donation bin owner is notified and given 24 hours to remove the donation bin. If there is no response, the donation bin and all its contents are disposed of.

The City of Fort Worth is committed to eliminating litter and illegal dumping in order to have a clean and safe community. Everyone can play a role in reaching this goal. SimplyStop It! Report It! Pick it Up!

Learn more:Call 817-392-1234.

Photo:Many donation bins belong to companies that are making a profit from donated items. Help keep Fort Worth clean by making donations directly to recognized charities.

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Tagged as:

• Environment