Dubuque, IA Trash & Recycling: Dumpster Rules (2026)

Dubuque City Code § 16-13-4-9 regulates exterior trash collection areas, defined to include collection bins, dumpsters and similar waste receptacles used for short-term storage of garbage, scrap, recyclables and debris. Storage is limited to trash produced by the site's own principal and accessory uses, and any trash that could be blown into the air or strewn about by the wind is prohibited outright. Placement is restricted to rear or side yards; a trash area cannot encroach into a front yard, though the city planner may grant a waiver where topography or a missing side or rear yard makes that impractical.

Every exterior trash area must be screened from view from the adjacent public right of way using a completely opaque fence, wall or similar feature between six and ten feet high, measured from ground level outside the screen; screens on sloping grades must be stepped so the top line stays horizontal. If a ten-foot screen still fails to hide the area from the right of way, the city can require evergreen plantings selected to finish screening the site within five years. The screen's exposed materials must match the building's exterior walls, and any gate or door into the screened enclosure must match the screen's design. The rule dates to Ordinance 52-09 (October 19, 2009).