Charleston, SC Trash & Recycling: Dumpster Rules (2026)

Article XVII, added by Ordinance No. 2001-36 in April 2001, opens with council's finding that public rights-of-way are an integral part of the public realm that must remain available for public use without undue private interference. Section 19-492 defines a covered 'dumpster' as an approved metal container, sized between four and thirty cubic yards, used to store, collect, or remove construction debris, demolition debris, or other discarded material; a smaller trash can or residential cart falls outside the definition. Section 19-493 requires anyone placing a dumpster on a right-of-way to first obtain a dumpster permit from the department of traffic and transportation, with a written application disclosing the applicant, the responsible contact person, the reason the dumpster is needed, whether it will block the right-of-way, how long it will remain, evidence of a Charleston business license, and proof of liability insurance of at least $1,000,000 naming the city as an additional insured.

The permit fee tracks the actual cost of occupying the metered or nonmetered parking space used, including a daily meter-bag fee if the dumpster sits in a metered space. Section 19-494 then sets placement standards: dumpsters must sit on a firm, level surface as close to the curb as possible, must not block vehicular or pedestrian passage or impede access to any public easement or utility installation, must be sited on private property instead if that is possible, must stay clear of posters and graffiti, and must be marked with retro-reflective sheeting at least three feet long and two inches wide on each corner, with barricades and flashing lights placed at each end at all times.

Violations carry a fine of up to $500 or thirty days in jail per offense under § 19-495, and each day a violation continues counts as a separate offense, with the owner jointly and severally liable alongside the applicant.