Latest Trash Stories

By Brianna Horan Oscar the Grouch is moving on up. Long gone are the dirty smudges, circling flies and messy overhanging liners that once made his trash can a home. Modern receptacles are equipped with tight lids, shiny coatings and infrared sensors that would make Oscar wonder whether he had the right address. An increasing number of homeowners are purchasing waste bins that seem too fancy for trash. With price tags ranging from $30 to $300, these investments aren't meant to be put out...

By Kerry Cavanaugh Despite concerns that homeowners already are struggling financially, the Los Angeles City Council voted Tuesday to hike residential garbage collection charges by 40 percent. When the new rates take effect Sept. 1, trash pickup will cost $36.32 per month for single-family homes. Owners of small apartment complexes served by the city will pay $24.33 a month. The council voted 11-1 to impose the fee increase, with Councilman Dennis Zine casting the lone opposing vote....

NORWALK - Firefighters found a badly burned body Tuesday night after putting out a trash bin fire. The grisly discovery was made in the 14400 block of Corby Avenue. County Fire Inspector Ron Haralson said they got a call at 11:43 p.m., Tuesday about a Dumspster fire spreading to a nearby tree. The trash bin was located behind a business. Sheriff's Homicide detectives were called after the charred corpse was discovered. Ed Winter, assistant chief of operations for the Coroner's Office said...