Permit guides › Philadelphia › PHL-TR-12
Dumpster License: Philadelphia restaurant guide
Philadelphia L&I
What it is
License for any trash or recycling dumpster kept on private property or the public right-of-way.
When a restaurant needs it
If your restaurant uses a dumpster.
How to apply
Apply in eCLIPSE with a plot plan and Waste Hauler Form; right-of-way dumpsters need Streets pre-approval.
Documents you’ll need
- CAL and tax account
- Plot plan showing enclosure
- Waste Hauler Form
- Waste & Recycling Plan on file
Fee
Private (lifetime): trash $80 (<1 cu yd) or $150 (1+ cu yd); recycling $40 or $75. Right-of-way (annual): $200–$500 trash, $100–$250 recycling
Processing time
Reviewed within five business days online
Renewal
Private: lifetime; right-of-way: annual
Who files
Owner or agent (often your hauler helps).
Good to know
Private dumpsters must be enclosed by an opaque fence, shrubbery or shed; right-of-way dumpsters are banned in parts of Center City and CA-2 districts.
Official source
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Last reviewed 2026-10-06. Guidance only, not legal advice.