San Bernardino County, CA Trash & Recycling: Dumpster Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Minimum roll-off size
- 20 cubic yards
- Must display
- permittee name + box number
- Lid rule
- exempt if covered/bagged
- Enforcing agency
- DEHS (Environmental Health Services)
- Applies in
- unincorporated county only
Summary
Commercial roll-off dumpsters must carry the hauler's name and a box number and stay covered or bagged to stop putrescible waste and debris from blowing out.
(a) Roll-off boxes shall be identified with the name of the permittee, and uniquely identified with a box number to aid in locating boxes which require maintenance. It shall be the responsibility of the permittee to keep all boxes painted and maintained. (b) Roll-off boxes are exempted from the provision for a tight-fitting lid or cover, provided any putrescible wastes is fully contained in closed plastic bags or equivalent and such roll-off boxes are covered or otherwise secured to prevent the blowing out, or other loss, of the contents whether such boxes are moving or stationary.
Full Breakdown
In the unincorporated county, commercial refuse containers of 20+ cubic yards (roll-off or drop-off boxes) must be labeled with the permittee's name and a unique box number so DEHS can track boxes needing maintenance, and the permittee must keep every box painted and maintained. Roll-off boxes skip the tight-fitting-lid rule that applies to smaller bins, but only if putrescible waste is bagged and the box itself is covered or otherwise secured against spillage or blow-out, whether parked or in transit. General placement rules also bar leaving any refuse container where it creates a traffic hazard.
Violations & Fines
DEHS can revoke or deny the hauler's health and safety permit; unlawful placement creating a traffic or health hazard is a separate violation under the same chapter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a roll-off box need a tight lid like a trash can?
Who enforces roll-off box labeling in unincorporated San Bernardino County?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Bernardino County
California rules heatmap·Compare San Bernardino County to another location·View the California trash & recycling overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.