Lavallette to Begin Issuing Summonses to Trash Bag Violators

Seagulls targeting a trash can on a New Jersey beach. (Photo: Jackie/Flickr)

A classic Shore area scourge has reared its ugly head in Lavallette: exposed trash bags becoming a messy target for hungry seagulls.

“It’s all over the place –on [Route] 35, Bay Boulevard, everywhere,” said Councilman David Finter, who estimated this spring is the worst he’s ever seen the issue.

The seagulls, smelling the disposed foodstuffs in the bags, tear them open often within hours of them being placed at the curb, spreading refuse onto streets and sidewalks.

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Finter said in the coming weeks, Lavallette code enforcement officers would begin issuing summonses to residents who do not comply with the borough’s proper procedures for trash disposal.

“There’s not a mandate to have a garbage can,” said Councilwoman Joanne Filippone, but white trash bags are not allowed.

While residents are strongly encouraged to use garbage cans, those who must use loose bags are required to use sturdier black contractor bags.

“There is no law that says we have to have garbage bags, but the black bags are required,” said Council President Anita Zalom.