Parsippany-Troy Hills, NJ Trash & Recycling: Dumpster Rules (2026)

The core rule is § 169-11 in Chapter 169, Fire Prevention, adopted by the Township Council: garbage containers known as dumpsters shall not be located within 15 feet of any building or structure. The only exception printed there is for dumpsters located under overhangs that are sprinklered or located in sprinklered parking structures. Section 169-1 adopts the New Jersey Uniform Fire Code by reference, and § 169-3 designates the Division of Fire Prevention as the local enforcing agency that inspects and enforces it.

The housing chapter has a parallel rule. Section 213-35(A) of Chapter 213, Housing and Property Maintenance, says dumpsters shall not be located within 15 feet of any building and defines a building as any structure used as intended for supporting or sheltering any use or occupancy. Section 213-35(B) allows relief in the event of hardship or other extenuating circumstances by appealing to the Fire Prevention Bureau of the Township. Section 213-35(C) lists circumstances that can support relief: narrowness of distance between the property lines and building, parking needs, traffic flow, type of dumpster construction, and other relief considered appropriate.

Container condition is covered in Chapter 357, Storm Sewer. Section 357-3(B) requires any person who controls a refuse container or dumpster, whether owned, leased or operated, to keep it covered at all times and prevent spilling or overflowing of refuse. Section 357-3(C) requires that the container not leak or otherwise discharge liquids, semiliquids or solids to the municipal separate storm sewer system operated by the Township.

A construction dumpster placed on a Township-owned or unaccepted dedicated street needs a permit under § 360-17. That permit is valid for a period of 30 days and can be extended for an additional thirty-day period upon approval of the Director. Section 213-37 makes the owner or operator responsible for removing garbage and refuse from public areas wherever a janitor is required for the premises.