Quincy, MA Trash & Recycling: Dumpster Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Applies to
- Businesses & 8+ unit buildings
- Placement approval
- Health Commissioner + Inspectional Services
- Cover
- Required except while filling
- Enclosure
- Screened, on concrete/asphalt pad
- Noncriminal fine
- $50 per day, MGL c.40 §21D
Summary
Quincy requires commercial dumpsters and dumpsters at 8-plus-unit residential buildings to be sited clear of curbs and traffic sightlines with Health Commissioner sign-off, kept covered, and generally screened on a paved pad.
Each dumpster shall be located at a distance from the lot line so as not to interfere with the safety of or obstruct the curb and sidewalk, or the convenience or health of abutters and the general public, or obstruct the view of flowing traffic. ... All dumpsters shall have a cover capable of containing the contents therein and shall be covered and secured when not in use and at all other times except during the actual filling of the dumpster.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: rev 4608810; v7 updated 2025-10-06; through 10-06-2025).
Full Breakdown
City of Quincy (Norfolk County), Massachusetts ordinance § 293-2 covers dumpsters at commercial businesses and residential buildings with eight or more units. Placement needs approval from the Health Commissioner and Department of Inspectional Services and cannot obstruct curbs, sidewalks, or traffic sightlines. Dumpsters must stay covered and secured except while being filled, must not overflow or smell, and most commercial dumpsters must be screened from public view on a concrete or asphalt pad, though waterfront sites can seek a wooden-pier waiver.
Violations & Fines
Violating § 293-2 can draw a fine up to the Code's general maximum under § 1-1, or a $50 noncriminal fine per MGL c. 40 § 21D: each day of continued violation is a separate offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Quincy, Massachusetts businesses need approval for dumpster placement?
Must a Quincy business dumpster be screened from view?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Quincy
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