Shopping Cart Enforcement
The Turlock Police Department and the City’s stores are proud to announce the start of a new program to clear the streets of shopping carts. The program includes a new ordinance. For the benefit of Turlock residents here is a summary of the various laws pertaining to this problem:
Turlock Municipal Code Section 5-23 Unauthorized removal or possession of a shopping cart
It is unlawful for any person to do any of the following, if a shopping cart has a permanently affixed sign pursuant to Sections 5-23-03(a) and 5-23-04(a):
Remove a shopping cart from the premises or parking area of a business establishment.
Leave or abandon a shopping cart at a location other than the premises or parking area of the retail establishment.
Alter, convert, or tamper with a shopping cart, or to remove any part or portion thereof or to remove, obliterate or alter serial numbers on a cart.
Be in possession of any shopping cart while that cart is not located on the premises or parking lot of a business establishment.
How do shopping carts get abandoned, anyway?
People “borrow” them. But people should know that removing carts from a store’s parking lot - or even possessing a cart without the store’s permission - is illegal and subject to a substantial fine.
What can residents do?
First, don’t be part of the problem. There are many “personal carts” available, and most are inexpensive - much less than the potential fine for taking a store cart!
Why should I report an abandoned shopping cart?
For one, abandoned shopping carts are an eyesore in the community and actually attract additional litter. More importantly though, they present a danger to children who do not understand the consequences of “playing” with shopping carts.
What should I do if I need to use a cart?
Many residents now use personal, collapsible carts that are both sturdy and lightweight. These carts can be taken on local buses, and can be stored easily at home. Personal carts can be purchased at a variety of local stores or online by typing “portable shopping carts” into your web browser
Citations
Citations can be issued for violation of the law. We look forward to a cart-free city and ask for your help to make the program a success!
What can I do if I see an abandoned shopping cart?
Call Neighborhood Services at 209-664-7348, or fill out the online citizen complaint form.
