Site Cleanliness License: Boston restaurant guide
Boston ISD — Environmental Sanitation
What it is
Annual license for any business using a dumpster. It holds you to keeping refuse contained, leak-proof, closed and free of litter and rodents. Boston lists it as one of three permits every restaurant needs.
When a restaurant needs it
All restaurants (any business with a dumpster).
How to apply
Email, mail or bring the Site Cleanliness Application to ISD, 1010 Massachusetts Ave., 4th floor (isdenvironmental@boston.gov).
Documents you’ll need
- Site Cleanliness Application
- Current solid waste disposal (hauler) contract, or a recent invoice if the contract is over a year old
- Street Occupancy Permit if the dumpster sits on a public way
Good to know
A dumpster on the street or sidewalk also needs a Public Works street occupancy permit ($50 base plus space fees, $5,000 bond) — apply at least 7 business days ahead.
Official source
Boston — Site Cleanliness License · Public Works — street occupancy permit (dumpster on street)
Answer a few questions about your space and get every permit in order, with a timeline, a cost range, walkthroughs, and every application filled in for you to sign with Open.
Last reviewed 2026-10-06. Guidance only, not legal advice.