Berwyn, IL Trash & Recycling: Dumpster Rules (2026)

Section 672.14(A) defines a DUMPSTER as any container suitable for collecting building materials, debris or similar materials with a width of at least five feet, a length of at least five feet and a depth of at least three feet. Roll-off boxes of that size fall under it.

Before a dumpster goes anywhere in the city, § 672.14(B) requires the owner to keep it leak-resistant and rodent-resistant and in good condition and repair, obtain a license from the City Collector's office and pay the fee, and give the Collector's office proof of liability insurance that names the city as an additional insured for drop-off, pick-up, maintenance and use. The owner must also label the dumpster indelibly on at least two sides in letters no less than one inch high, in a contrasting color, with the owner's name, address and telephone number, and obtain a permit from the Building Department and pay that fee.

Once placed, § 672.14(C) requires a clean and safe condition, a cover or other means to keep out rodents, unauthorized recyclers and children, compliance with the safety rules of § 672.11, and prompt removal when the dumpster is full or five days after drop-off, whichever first occurs.

Section 672.11 adds night-time safety rules for any dumpster on or within three feet of a public way, which includes sidewalks, streets, thoroughfares and alleys. Between sunset and sunrise the dumpster needs reflectorized paint covering at least 50% of each side surface and along each edge of all side surfaces at a width of not less than five inches, and it needs a barricade within five feet of, and lateral to, each side that faces the public way. A barricade is at least four feet high with a flashing amber lamp at no less than three and one half feet and a reflectorized surface of at least five square feet. Whoever deposits the dumpster must remove it within five days or bring it into compliance.

For commercial refuse containers and compactors, § 672.13(J) requires an indelible label with the business name and address in letters no less than one inch high, visible from the alley, and § 672.13(K) lets the Director of Buildings adopt enforcement rules.