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Manitou Springs, CO Trash & Recycling: Dumpster Rules (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Permit cap
90 days maximum
Extension
Allowed for demonstrated project need
Applies to
Roll-off dumpsters, storage pods, similar objects
Not allowed
Substitute for long-term storage
Fee
Set by City Council resolution
Max penalty
$2,650 fine or 90 days jail

Summary

A roll-off dumpster, storage pod or similar object placed in a Manitou Springs public right-of-way needs a temporary encroachment permit under Municipal Code § 12.04.040(E), and the permit is capped at 90 days unless the city grants an extension for a documented project need.

E.Special regulations for roll-off dumpsters and similar objects.1.Roll-off dumpster, storage pods or other similar objects may be permitted within the public right-of-way under this section only for as long as they are in active use in connection with construction, remodeling, or any other project.2.Notwithstanding any other provision in this chapter, the maximum duration of a permit under this subsection D shall be ninety days; unless an extended permit period is warranted upon demonstration of need due to the nature of the project (such as a large project that reasonably requires the placement of a storage pod for more than ninety days or unforeseen delays not the fault of the permit holder that require an extension of the initial permit expiration date). In no instance shall placement of a roll-off dumpster, storage pod, or other large immoveable object under such a permit be used as a substitute for long-term or on-site trash or materials storage or disposal arrangements.

Full Breakdown

040(E) singles out roll-off dumpsters, storage pods and similar large objects for special treatment within the chapter's general temporary encroachment permit process. The object may sit in the right-of-way only for as long as it is in active use for construction, remodeling or a similar project, and the maximum permit duration is 90 days. The city administrator or a designee can extend that window if the applicant demonstrates need, such as a large project that genuinely requires a storage pod for more than 90 days, or an unforeseen delay that was not the permit holder's fault.

What the section will not allow, regardless of extension, is using a dumpster or storage pod permit as a substitute for a homeowner's or business's long-term or on-site trash and materials storage. 040(B), the applicant pays a fee set by City Council resolution, and the city administrator weighs input from the police, fire and streets departments plus the object's location and the time of year before approving, conditionally approving or denying the permit. 040(D).

Violations & Fines

Placing a roll-off dumpster or storage pod in the right-of-way without a permit, or leaving it past the 90-day limit without an approved extension, is a misdemeanor under the code's general penalty, § 1.01.100: up to $2,650 in fines, up to 90 days in jail, or both, and the city can also revoke the permit and require immediate removal under § 12.04.040(D).

Frequently Asked Questions

How long can a roll-off dumpster sit in front of my house in Manitou Springs?
Up to 90 days under a temporary encroachment permit issued under § 12.04.040(E), and only while it is actively being used for a construction, remodeling or similar project. The city can extend that if you show the project genuinely needs more time.
Do I need a permit for a dumpster in my own driveway?
No, § 12.04.040 only regulates objects placed in the public right-of-way, meaning the street or sidewalk area the city controls, so a dumpster kept entirely on your private driveway or yard is not an encroachment requiring a permit under this section.
Can I use a storage pod for long-term storage in Manitou Springs?
No. Section 12.04.040(E) says the permit cannot be used as a substitute for long-term or on-site trash or materials storage, so once the related project is finished the pod has to come off the right-of-way even if the 90-day period has not run out.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Manitou Springs

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