I don't think the legal principle rests on where the trash lies (public or private property); rather, on the idea of abandonment. In many US states streets wer

I don't think the legal principle rests on where the trash lies (public or private property); rather, on the idea of abandonment. In many US states streets were never formally deeded to the municipality when the lots were platted, and there's a long standing legal principle that the lot owner has a fee-simple interest to the middle of the street. (Washington included, not sure about Oregon) ie, it's not public property, it's private property with an easement dedicated to the public.