A container on a Mishawaka street
The city's Engineering Department issues permits for dumpsters in the public right-of-way. Its dumpster permit form asks for the company, the location and start and end dates, and lists the conditions of approval:
- the curb, sidewalk and street pavement must be protected from damage
- barricades with flashers go at each end of the container
- the applicant keeps nails, paper and debris from spilling or blowing out
- the container can't be placed until the Director of Engineering or a designee approves it
Ask about the barricades
The form asks who supplies the flashers and barricades, so ask the rental company whether it provides them or whether you need to arrange them. Engineering is at City Hall, 100 Lincolnway West, (574) 258-1619. If the job runs longer than planned, the form says to ask Engineering for an extension.
A container on your own driveway avoids all of this.
What Mishawaka's trash service already handles
- Bulky items
- WM takes up to two bulk items a week on your regular collection day, per the city's trash page. A sofa or two may not need a dumpster at all.
- Construction waste
- Not allowed in the regular trash cart, which is where a roll-off comes in.
- Leaves
- Fall leaf pickup runs October 19 to December 11, 2026, weather permitting, on the day before your trash day.
The east-side drop-off
The county's household hazardous waste site at 1105 E. Fifth St. is in Mishawaka, open Tuesday to Saturday, 8:30 to 3. It takes paint, solvents, pesticides, batteries, bulbs and electronics. Per Mishawaka's list, it doesn't take refrigerators, freezers or air conditioners, building materials, propane tanks or medicine.
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.