El Paso County, CO Trash & Recycling: Dumpster Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- LDC § 6.2.2(G)(1)(b)
- Minimum screen height
- 6 feet
- Screen types allowed
- Wall, fence, dense evergreens, berm
- Enforcing agency
- El Paso County PCD
Summary
New commercial and multifamily development in unincorporated El Paso County must screen dumpsters and other refuse collection areas from view of neighbors and streets.
Refuse Areas Screened. Refuse collection areas, including trash bins, shall be screened from view from adjacent properties and roads by an opaque wall or fence, architectural elements, dense evergreen plantings with a minimum planting height of 6 feet, or berms with dense plantings creating an opaque appearance with a minimum height of 6 feet.
(c) Loading Docks and Other Vehicle Areas Screened. Loading docks, vehicle repair bays, and vehicle fueling areas shall be screened from view from adjacent roads by the use of plantings, berms, walls, fences, or other architectural elements.
(d) Water Storage Tank and Utility Facilities Landscape Requirements.
(i) Site-Specific Landscaping Required. PCD Director approval of site-specific landscaping is required for a water storage tank and utility facilities. Installation of approved site-specific landscaping is required prior to putting a water storage tank or utility facility into operation. The site-specific landscaping is subject to the following standards:
• Rural and Remote Areas: In rural and remote areas landscaping, screening and erosion control measures shall be tailored to the nature and character of the area and the type of facility or structure contemplated. Site-specific landscaping shall, at a minimum, include revegetation of disturbed areas with materials indigenous to the site or otherwise adaptable.
• Urbanized and Developed Areas: In urbanized and developed areas, the site-specific
Full Breakdown
County Land Development Code § 6.2.2(G)(1)(b) requires that refuse collection areas, including dumpsters and trash bins, be screened from adjacent properties and roads. Screening must use an opaque wall or fence, architectural elements, or dense evergreen plantings or berms at least 6 feet tall. The Landscaping and Planting Manual notes required screening walls should match the main building's architecture.
Violations & Fines
Site plans that omit required dumpster screening are rejected by Planning and Community Development (PCD); unscreened refuse areas on approved sites are a zoning violation subject to code enforcement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all dumpsters in unincorporated El Paso County need screening?
How tall must dumpster screening be?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in El Paso County
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