Q & A Table of Contents
She Won’t Change Her Trash Habits
From: Laura, Brooklyn, New York
Question: My neighbor keeps putting her garbage out to be picked up, in front of my house. She doesn't just put her cans, she also puts large bulk items and non recyclables with recyclables. I have asked her several times to please stop doing this and she just keeps doing it. I am at risk for getting a summons for the recyclables and bulk items. I am at the end of my rope. I feel that the only alternative that I have is to report her to the Department of Sanitation. Do you think I should warn her that this is going to be my next step?
Response: You indicate you have discussed your neighbor’s trash habits with her several times — and she has not complied. There is no reason not to report her to the Department of Sanitation inasmuch as she is not only putting you at risk for getting a citation, but also creating risks of sanitary problems in front of your house as well as for the neighborhood.
If you have a relationship with her that is good on other issues, then giving her fair warning is a good idea. If reporting her to the Department of Sanitation could put you at risk in any way, you should find out from the Department whether they will protect your anonymity if you report ‘a neighbor’ who is disobeying the regulations. The answer to that question may also help you determine whether to give her the opportunity to choose whether she wants to be reported or is prepared to clean up her act.
Good luck,
Steve
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