Union County, NJ Trash & Recycling: Dumpster Rules (2026)

Chapter 131, Article V, adopted 10/14/2010 by Ord. No. 710-2010, establishes the requirement that dumpsters and refuse containers be covered at all times and prevented from discharging into the Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System of the County of Union or into State waters, § 131-15. The operative rule at § 131-17 requires any person who controls a refuse container or dumpster, whether owned, leased, or operated, to keep it covered and stop refuse from spilling or overflowing, and to ensure it does not leak or otherwise discharge liquids, semi-liquids, or solids to the county's MS4.

Five categories are exempt from this rule under § 131-18: permitted temporary demolition containers, litter receptacles other than dumpsters or bulk containers, individual homeowner trash and recycling containers, containers at facilities with a valid NJPDES stormwater discharge permit, and large bulky items such as furniture, bound carpet, or white goods placed curbside for pickup. Enforcement falls to the same three county units as the stormwater ordinances: the Division of Police, Bureau of Inspections, and Bureau of Environmental Enforcement, § 131-19.