Trash & Recycling in Centennial, CO

If you live in Centennial or are thinking about moving there, trash & recycling are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Centennial has 3 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of trash & recycling, and some of them might surprise you.

Illegal Dumping

Centennial makes it unlawful to dump construction materials, debris, landscape waste, snow or ice on public property, and to let such material spill from private property onto sidewalks or streets.

Key details: Dumping on public property: Unlawful, narrow City-work exception. Private-property encroachment: Banned within 8-15 vertical feet. First-offense fine: $250 to $2,650. Trash container grace period: 24 hours at curb allowed.

Illegal dumping is a declared nuisance under Chapter 7 Article 1: municipal court fines run $250-$2,650 for a first offense, $400 minimum for a second, and $500 minimum for a third within 12 months, plus costs.

This is one of the stricter rules in Centennial's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

Dumpster Rules

Centennial bans dumpsters on public property without a right-of-way permit and limits residential dumpsters to seven days unless screened, always at least five feet from any property line.

Key details: Property-line setback: 5 feet minimum. Unpermitted residential stay: 7 days. Screened residential stay: up to 1 year. Public property: requires Public Works ROW permit. Multi-family use: permanent dumpster allowed.

Placing a dumpster on public property without a Public Works right-of-way permit, or violating the residential time limit or five-foot setback, is a minor offense fined under Municipal Code Section 1-4-10.

Bin Placement Rules

Centennial requires garbage carts to stay covered and out of view from the street, except when set at the curb for pickup, and curbside placement on public property is capped at 24 hours under the City's nuisance code.

Key details: Container cover: Required at all times. Curbside placement limit: 24 hours maximum. Screening: Hidden from public view. Governing code: LDC § 12-3-608; § 7-2-60.

Leaving a garbage cart visible from the street outside collection day, or leaving it curbside past 24 hours, is a code violation code enforcement can cite; multifamily dumpster enclosures lacking required screening walls or gates are also enforceable.

The Bottom Line

Centennial's trash & recycling rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Centennial is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Centennial's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.