The first rule of dumpster diving is try to avoid it if you can.
If you see something out on the curb or in the back alley that is going to be thrown out you can either just take it or politely let the former owner know that you restore furniture, create art from found objects, have a specific purpose in taking the object if they are ok with that.
If you happen upon a house being renovated ask what they are going to do with any of the materials they remove. Things like older counter tops and cupboards may still be usable for you. Wood scraps can also be a great resource. The more you can take away the less haulage fees the home owner will have to cover.
If you actually see something in a dumpster that you really want you might also let the owners know. You should also make every effort to remove things without actually climbing inside. Sticks, rakes, something that will let you hook onto an object and draw it towards your arm's reach. And remember all that glitters is not gold. Wear gloves and old clothes to protect yourself from the icky things like wet food scraps, bodily fluids, dog or horse droppings...
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