If you want to place a dumpster on private property or in the right-of-way (along a street or sidewalk), you need to get a dumpster license. These licenses are issued by the Department of Licenses and Inspections (L&I). This page contains applications and materials for these licenses.
You can apply for dumpster licenses online or take your application to the Permit and License Center in the MSB Concourse. Do not mail applications.
| Name | Description | Released | Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dumpster, private or public, license application PDF | Application to place a dumpster on private property or in the public right-of-way. | October 23, 2025 | |
| Dumpster plot plan form PDF | Use this form to depict the location of the dumpster and any required enclosures. | October 12, 2022 | |
| The dumpster law: What you need to know PDF | Information about the City's dumpster law. | June 8, 2022 | |
| Department of L&I dumpster medallion program FAQs PDF | All dumpsters in the city need to have a medallion, issued by the Department of Streets. This document answers commonly asked questions related to that program. | October 23, 2025 | |
| Private dumpster license checklist PDF | This checklist provides steps to obtain a private dumpster license. | October 5, 2023 | |
| Public dumpster license checklist PDF | This checklist provides steps to obtain a public dumpster license. | October 23, 2025 | |
| Radio frequency identification tag installation information sheet PDF | All dumpsters in the city need to have a radio frequency identification tag. This document provides instructions how to get, install, and maintain that tag. | October 14, 2022 | |
| Streets ROW Public Dumpster Form PDF | Application for Streets Department approval to place a dumpster on the public right-of-way. | October 23, 2025 |