Howell, NJ Trash & Recycling: Dumpster Rules (2026)

Chapter 127 of the Howell Township Code, Dumpsters and Refuse Containers, has two layers. The first, § 127-1, is a screening rule for dumpsters on private property. Any dumpster at a commercial or industrial establishment or multifamily building must be bordered on three sides by a six-foot stockade fence or block wall, with a six-foot high gate at the front of the dumpster. Where the dumpster sits against a building or existing structure, only the two open sides need a border, in addition to the gate.

The second layer was added by Ord. No. O-10-30 on 12-14-2010 to protect the Township's storm sewers and state waters. Section 127-2 states the purpose: dumpsters and other refuse containers that are outdoors or exposed to stormwater must be covered at all times, with no spilling, dumping or leaking of liquids, semiliquids or solids into the municipal separate storm sewer system or the waters of the state. Section 127-4(A) puts the duty on any person who controls a refuse container or dumpster, whether owned, leased or operated: keep it covered at all times and prevent refuse from spilling out or overflowing. Section 127-4(B) adds that a container must not leak or discharge liquids, semiliquids or solids to the storm sewer system operated by the Township. The definition of refuse container in § 127-3 is wide: any waste container a person controls, including dumpsters, trash cans, garbage pails and plastic trash bags.

Section 127-5 exempts permitted temporary demolition containers, litter receptacles other than dumpsters or bulk containers, individual homeowner trash and recycling containers, refuse containers at facilities authorized to discharge stormwater under a valid NJPDES permit, and large bulky items such as furniture, bound carpet and padding and white goods placed curbside for pickup. Section 127-6 gives enforcement to the Code Enforcement Officer of the Township of Howell.