PRESS RELEASES

CITY OF HOUSTON TO ENFORCE DUMPSTER PERMIT ORDINANCE

October 5, 2004 - City of Houston Solid Waste Management Department (SWMD) officials will administer the permitting of Houston’s stationary dumpster program. Yearly, Houston Fire Department crews must respond to dozens of dumpster fires. Many of the blazes cause significant damage to nearby property.

By inspecting dumpsters, we can save local businesses and the City considerable time and money ensuring proper placement and access to these large receptacles. All businesses, apartment complexes and other properties with dumpsters exceeding 1.5 cubic yards must have a Combustible Waste Storage Permit. Fines for violations range from $500 to $2,000.

“This Code has been in effect for years, however many do not have current permits,” said Buck Buchanan, SWMD Director. “Our department is currently sending out Code Enforcement Inspectors to visit with property managers to verify that they have current permits and are in compliance.”

SWMD Code Enforcement Inspectors, as well as Fire and Health inspectors, will inspect all dumpsters for compliance with the Code that includes:

Validation of dumpster permits (permit lasts 1 year).
Validation of dumpster permit for the proper number of receptacles.
Proper fitting lids for dumpsters.
Maintaining clean and clear space around dumpsters.
Dumpster is not placed on sidewalk, street, or other public property or obstructing exit from a building.
Drain plugs are in place.

Property managers will be informed if violations are found, and they will be given a reasonable period of time to correct the violations before a citation is issued.

The permit cost for one dumpster is $75 (plus administrative costs). Two or more dumpsters cost $150 (plus administrative costs). For more information or for Combustible Waste Permit Applications, visit the link or call 713.837.9159.