Norfolk, VA Trash & Recycling: Dumpster Rules (2026)

Any business or multi-unit property that wants a bulk container, the roll-off style dumpster used at commercial buildings and larger residential complexes, must first obtain a permit from the director of public health under City Code Sec. 41-13. The application requires a site plan and payment of the fee the health director sets before the permit is issued; the director of planning, director of public works and fire chief assist in reviewing it. In deciding whether to grant the permit, the director enforces nine siting standards: the container cannot sit on city property, a roadway, street, right-of-way or easement except under a separate temporary-staging permit from public works; it must be reachable for pickup from a public right-of-way; the location cannot violate the fire code, building code or zoning ordinance; the pad must be a firm, cleanable concrete-or-equal surface marked with a four-to-six-inch painted line; the container must sit at least ten feet from any building, fire escape or doorway and behind the building line; it cannot displace a required parking space; and it must be labeled with the servicing name, unit or business address and enclosed in an opaque fence or otherwise screened from the right-of-way.

Containers installed before February 28, 1985 that cannot meet a standard may receive a waiver from the health director, for a separate waiver fee, with conditions the director sets. The temporary staging of a bulk container for construction debris or property maintenance on private property is exempt from these siting rules.