Renting a dumpster may sound easy. You order it, it is delivered to your home, you fill it up with trash, and that’s it. But there is one detail many people forget about: the permit. It is a small detail but skipping it can get you fined or delay your cleanup project.

Below, this dumpster rental contractor in Milwaukee, Wisconsin is going to explain some of the key things you should know about dumpster permits.

Where will the dumpster be placed?

Whether you need a permit depends on where you are placing the dumpster. You probably don’t need one if it is staying on your own property, like your driveway or a paved spot behind the house.

But if you want to place the dumpster on the street, sidewalk, or any other public space, you must first secure a permit from the City of Milwaukee. The permit fee depends on how long the dumpster stays there and how much space it takes.

If this sounds confusing, a professional dumpster rental contractor in Milwaukee, Wisconsin will be happy to assist you. They already know what steps to take and what forms to fill out.

What does the permit include?

If your dumpster is on public property, you must follow the City of Milwaukee’s safety and placement regulations.

You will need a barricade and a flashing yellow light to warn drivers. You will need barricades at both ends if the dumpster is in an alley. You’ll also have to add reflective tape near the top, so it is easier to see at night or from a distance.

There are also clearance rules. You can’t put a dumpster within 10 feet of fire hydrants, street trees, and utility poles. The dumpster should also stay at least 60 feet from a street intersection and 20 feet from intersecting alleys.

The dumpster can’t stick out more than 8 feet into the road either. And you can’t keep it where parking is not allowed, like no-parking zones, bus stops, or places with meters, unless you pay to cover the meter.

If your dumpster will be on a sidewalk, you must leave at least five feet clear for people to walk. You will also need signs and barricades at both ends.

Alley placement has its own rules. There must be 11 feet left open so vehicles can still pass through. You also can’t block exits or place a dumpster under a fire escape.

One more thing to consider — the dumpster must go in front of the property where the work is happening. If it is in front of someone else’s home or business, you need written permission from that property owner.

These guidelines are strictly enforced, and failure to comply can result in penalties. A dumpster rental contractor in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, can walk you through all the rules or even handle the permit process on your behalf.

What happens if you skip the permit?

If you place a dumpster on public land without a permit, the city can send police officers or city inspectors to make you move it right away. And even if the city removes it for you, you will still pay the costs for removal, storage, and administrative fees.

On top of that, you could be fined. Regular sanitation violations start at $25–$70. However, dumpster violations can cost much more, especially if your container blocks traffic or pedestrian access.

When in doubt, ask the rental company.

If you are even a little unsure about the permit situation, a professional dumpster rental contractor in Milwaukee, Wisconsin can handle it for you. They deal with city forms and permit rules every day. They will either take care of the process entirely or guide you through it step by step to make sure you don’t miss anything.

Looking for a Dumpster Rental Contractor in Milwaukee, Wisconsin?

Are you starting a cleanup project and need help removing all the waste? If so, and if you’re ready to partner with a professional dumpster rental contractor in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Eagle Disposal Inc. is just a call away. Contact us at (262) 895-4800 for a free estimate.