Key Points
- More cities ban unauthorized removal of recyclables left at collection points, with fines for violating orders.
- Administrative charges for littering are also spreading.
- Amounts, scope and procedures vary by city. Check your municipality’s ordinance.
Background
Recyclables such as paper, metal and PET bottles are sometimes taken for their resale value, undermining municipal collection. Many cities prohibit removal and littering under waste ordinances, with stop orders and administrative charges.
What Cities Are Doing (official announcements)
- Shibuya Ward: 渋谷区でポイ捨て罰則が強化：2026年6月1日から過料2,000円を適用
- Hiroshima City: 広島市が資源ごみの持ち去りを条例で禁止 – 違反者には20万円以下の罰金
- Fukuoka City: 福岡市｜家庭ごみ・資源物の持ち去り行為は条例で禁止、禁止命令違反には5万円の過料
- Hiroshima City: 広島市｜ごみの禁止事項：不法投棄・野外焼却・資源ごみ持ち去りを案内
What to Check
- Put recyclables out on the morning of collection (night-before disposal invites theft and fires).
- Do not confront removers directly — contact your city or the police.
- Littering and open burning can be ordinance violations.
Note: This article summarizes nationwide trends based on official municipal announcements. It does not assert any specific city’s exact rules. Always verify the latest information on your municipality’s official website.