Springfield, OH Trash & Recycling: Dumpster Rules (2026)

Chapter 1121 WASTE MANAGEMENT governs commercial dumpster and waste-enclosure placement in the City of Springfield, Ohio. Section 1121.02 applies the chapter to all nonresidential development. Section 1121.03(a) requires waste facilities in the R-HD, C-NC, C-LC, C-HC, I-LI, I-HI, P-PR, P-IE, and P-DM districts to sit inside a waste enclosure meeting the screening standards of Section 1120.03, fully screened on every side except the access side, with the screening colored to match the main building's exterior walls. A solid metal gate is mandatory, cannot exceed ten feet in height, must remain closed except when in use, and cannot swing open into a fire lane.

Only one waste enclosure is required per lot, though two adjacent lot owners may mutually agree to share a double enclosure instead. Section 1121.03(b) sets the design specifications: each enclosure needs a minimum inside dimension of 12 feet by 12 feet and a gate opening at least 12 feet wide, plus a turnaround area long enough for the collection truck to exit without backing onto a public right-of-way. Waste facilities cannot sit in front of the main building unless the Community Development Director finds no other option exists.

Section 1121.03(c) lets properties in the C-NC and C-DT districts use City-contractor-approved rolling carts and wheeled dumpsters instead of a full enclosure, and Section 1121.04 lets the Community Development Director extend that rolling-cart allowance to other properties through the alternative compliance process.