Written on: September 25, 2023
Are you new to needing a dumpster? If so, you likely have a lot of questions. Fortunately, PRO Hauling is here to help with our residential and commercial dumpster rentals.
One of those questions may be about where to place your dumpster to maximize safety and efficiency for your project. We’re here to help with some information about dumpsters and the importance of putting them in the proper place.
Your dumpster must be placed in an area accessible to our trucks so it can be safely delivered and placed.
Wherever your dumpster is placed, PRO Hauling places it on top of wood boards to protect the surface underneath it. Once the dumpster is removed, we will clean up after it, so you don’t need to.
For optimal stability, ensure your dumpster is placed in a level and sturdy area. This is why driveways are the preferred option. While placing it directly on the ground is an option, be aware that it may damage the surrounding grass and leave marks when relocated. Concrete or paved surfaces are highly recommended.
When choosing a location for the dumpster, it’s important to consider ease of access. Look for a spot that is conveniently located near nearby doors or the worksite. The dumpster should be out of the way, yet easily and quickly reachable. Additionally, be mindful of any potential obstacles or structures that may impede access to the dumpster. Avoid placing it near fences, trees, buildings, or anything that could slow down or prevent access. Opt for a location that offers a clear and unobstructed path to the dumpster.
For safety and practicality, there are a few spaces where your dumpster should not be.
On the street: On the street may not be a bad place, but you need to do some thinking and planning ahead first.
In most municipalities, bins can be placed on city streets for a maximum of 24 hours. If you need to keep it longer, you’ll need a permit from your town or city hall and that needs to be done before the dumpster is delivered. Ensure that the permit is prominently showcased on the exterior of the bin.
Also, remember to be considerate of your neighbors. Make sure the dumpster won’t block access to driveways or keep neighbors from seeing traffic as they are exiting their driveway. If the dumpster is going to be there for multiple days, it may impact access to street parking, which can cause problems on weekends if anyone is having a party or cookout. Give them a heads-up.
On a slope: You may think, “Oh, it’s not that steep an angle. What’s the big deal?” However, as the dumpster accumulates additional weight from the items you’re disposing of, the likelihood of it sliding or gliding down a slope grows. It is crucial to be mindful of this, especially in winter, early spring, or late fall when the risk of frost and freezing exists. That can make a sloped driveway or yard extra slippery and turn your dumpster into a dangerous projectile.
On soft or sandy ground: While the dumpster may look fine when you place it, as you start to fill it, the combined weight of the waste and the dumpster will cause it to sink down into the ground. This makes it difficult to remove the dumpster.
PRO Hauling’s dumpster services are designed to make having a dumpster at your home or business. Get your FREE quote today!