City of South Bend rules
Dumpster permits in South Bend
Where the container sits decides whether the city gets involved. On your own driveway or yard, it doesn't. On the street, an alley or the tree lawn, it does.
Call hours: Monday to Saturday 8am–8pm, Sunday 8am–1pm (South Bend time)
The short version
- Driveway or yard
- Private property. The city's occupancy permit covers the public right-of-way, so a container on your own land is outside it.
- Street, parking lane, alley or tree lawn
- Public right-of-way. An Occupancy Permit from the city's Engineering Permits Office is required.
- Sidewalk
- Not allowed. A dumpster can't be placed on a sidewalk.
- Who applies
- The dumpster company, not you. Homeowners can't apply for this permit directly.
The company must be bonded with the city
South Bend only lets a dumpster into the right-of-way if the company supplying it is bonded with the city's Department of Public Works. The bonded company files the permit request for you. If the company you reach isn't bonded, the container has to go on private property.
So if you have no driveway, or the driveway is too short, say so at the start of the call and ask whether the company is bonded with South Bend. The city's permit article lists the bonded companies.
Timing
Three business days
The city asks for at least three business days to process a dumpster permit, so book street placement early, especially before a weekend project.
No set limit
There's no fixed time limit on a permitted dumpster in the right-of-way.
Past 90 days
A container staying more than 90 days needs a Long-Term Occupancy Permit, with extra insurance, fees and Board of Public Works approval that can take several weeks.
Questions for the city
The city's 311 call center answers right-of-way questions Monday to Friday, 7:30am to 5:30pm: dial 311 inside city limits or 574-233-0311 from outside. Mishawaka handles its own permits through its Engineering Department; see the Mishawaka page.
Book a roll-off for your project
Describe what you're getting rid of. An independent local roll-off company will suggest a container, offer delivery dates and give you its price.
Use this number to rent a roll-off or a portable toilet. South Bend garbage, recycling and bulk pickup questions go to 311.
Call hours: Monday to Saturday 8am–8pm, Sunday 8am–1pm (South Bend time)
Your call may be recorded; see the referral disclosure.