Do You Need a Dumpster Permit in Los Angeles?
Not if the bin sits on your own property. If it goes on the street, the city you are in decides. Here are the rules for the City of Los Angeles, Burbank and unincorporated Los Angeles County.
- 3, 10, 25 & 40 yard bins
- 7 day standard rental
- No surprise fees
The short version
On private property
A dumpster on your driveway, your lot or anywhere else on private property does not need a city permit.
On public property
A dumpster on a street, alley, sidewalk or parkway needs a permit from the city before it is placed.
Which city
The permit comes from the city where the bin will sit, not the city where the hauler is based. Los Angeles and Burbank run separate systems.
City of Los Angeles
Van Nuys, North Hollywood, Sherman Oaks and every other Los Angeles neighborhood.
The City of Los Angeles calls it a Building Materials Permit. It is issued by the Bureau of Street Services, also known as StreetsLA, under Los Angeles Municipal Code section 62.45, which covers materials and equipment placed in the street.
You need it before a bin is set on a public street, alley, sidewalk or parkway. The application is online, and either the property owner or the contractor can apply. The permit is not final until StreetsLA approves it and it has been paid for, so apply before you schedule delivery.
The same rule covers every neighborhood inside the city limits, including Van Nuys, North Hollywood, Sherman Oaks, Northridge and the rest of the San Fernando Valley.
Official source: City of Los Angeles permit manual, Building Materials Permit.
Burbank
Burbank is its own city with its own permit.
Burbank requires a Street Use Permit from the Public Works Department for a roll off bin on the street. The permit is issued for two weeks, and the city may allow one extension.
Burbank also sets conditions. A bin in a parking lane needs barricades with flashers at the front and the rear, and bins on steeper streets need wheel stops or a review before the permit is issued.
Apply through Burbank Public Works at (818) 238-3950. More on our Burbank dumpster rental page.
Official source: City of Burbank Public Works, Permits.
Unincorporated Los Angeles County
Areas that are not inside any city.
In unincorporated areas, Los Angeles County Public Works requires an encroachment permit to place a dumpster in the street. A temporary permit allows the dumpster to stay for up to 7 consecutive days and is issued by the county permit field offices.
Official source: Los Angeles County Public Works FAQ.
How to skip the permit
Most of our deliveries never need one.
Use the driveway
If the bin fits on your driveway or lot, no street permit is involved.
Size down
Our 3 yard is 72 by 41.5 by 46 inches. It fits driveways and parking stalls that a larger bin will not.
Ask us first
Tell us the address and where you want the bin. We will tell you whether that spot is private property or public right of way.
Other cities
Every incorporated city in Los Angeles County sets its own rules for bins on the street. If your job is outside Los Angeles and Burbank, call (818) 350-8811 with the address and we will point you to the right office. Rules and fees change, so confirm with the city before your delivery date. Last reviewed October 2026.
Dumpster permit FAQ
Do I need a permit for a dumpster in my driveway in Los Angeles?
No. A dumpster that sits entirely on your driveway or other private property does not need a city permit.
Who issues dumpster permits in the City of Los Angeles?
The Bureau of Street Services, also called StreetsLA. The permit is called a Building Materials Permit and falls under Los Angeles Municipal Code section 62.45.
Who applies for the permit, the homeowner or the contractor?
In the City of Los Angeles, either the property owner or the contractor can apply online.
Does an alley count as the street?
Yes. In Los Angeles an alley is public right of way, so a bin in an alley needs the same permit as a bin on the street.
How long is a Burbank dumpster permit good for?
Burbank issues its Street Use Permit for roll off bins for two weeks, and the city may allow one extension.
What about a private street or an HOA?
A private street is not city right of way, but your HOA or property manager may have its own rules. Ask them where a bin is allowed before you book.
Have a job in mind?
Tell us the address, the size and the date. We will come back with a straight number and tell you whether you need a permit.