Dumpster Rental in Houston, Texas
Complete guide to the most complex dual permit system, trusted local providers, and Harris County regulations
📋 Houston's Unique Dual Permit System
Houston is the ONLY major US city requiring permits for dumpsters on private commercial property. Different permits needed for public vs private placement:
| Location Type | Permit Required | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Private Commercial Property | Combustible Waste Storage | $187.96-$783.27 |
| Public Right-of-Way | Mobility Permit | Variable |
| Commercial >50 cu ft | MANDATORY | Annual/3-Year |
* Private property permits required for ANY commercial dumpster over 50 cubic feet or on-site >60 days
Quick Houston Permit Facts
Private Property Permits
- Department: Solid Waste Management
- Phone: 832-393-0459
- Duration: 1 or 3 years
- Required: Notarized affidavit
Public Property Permits
- Department: Houston Public Works
- Portal: geopermit.houstontx.gov
- Type: Mobility permits
- Duration: Project-specific
Houston Dumpster Rental Companies
Samson Disposal
Phone: (713) 300-3966
Website: samsondisposal.com
Experience: 25 years in Houston
Service Areas: Houston and surrounding areas
Specialties: Competitive pricing, large inventory, flexible rental periods
Control Waste Services
Phone: (281) 537-8442
Experience: Family-owned since 2003
Features: Same-day delivery (call before 10 AM)
Service Areas: Greater Houston area
Services: Roll-off dumpsters, compactors, residential & commercial
Bin There Dump That Houston
Website: bintheredumpthat.com/houston-dumpster-rentals/
Specialties: "Residential Friendly" service
Service Areas: Houston area
Services: Next-day delivery, property protection, construction & residential
Alpha Dumpsters
Website: alphadumpsters.com/houston-tx-dumpster-rental/
Service Center: Dickinson (serves Houston)
Experience: 20+ years in waste hauling
Container Sizes: 10, 20, 30, 40-yard options
Features: Transparent pricing, no hidden fees
Waste Connections of Houston
Website: wasteconnections.com/houston/
Features: Newest truck fleet, no unexplainable fees
Service Areas: Houston market and surrounding areas
Services: Roll-off dumpsters, commercial waste, recycling solutions
Note: Contact companies directly for current pricing and availability. Ensure they understand Houston's complex dual permit requirements.
Houston Area Coverage
Inner Loop
- Downtown
- Midtown
- River Oaks
- The Heights
- Montrose
- Museum District
- Fourth Ward
- East End
Southwest Houston
- Bellaire
- West University
- Meyerland
- Sugar Land
- Missouri City
- Pearland
- Southside Place
- Stafford
Northwest Houston
- Spring Branch
- Memorial
- Cypress
- Tomball
- The Woodlands
- Spring
- Katy
- Energy Corridor
Southeast Houston
- Clear Lake
- League City
- Friendswood
- Pasadena
- Deer Park
- La Porte
- Seabrook
- Galena Park
Also serving: Conroe, Huntsville, Baytown, Texas City, Brazoria County, Fort Bend County, and all of Greater Houston area
Houston Permit Application Process
Private Property (Commercial)
Determine if container exceeds 50 cubic feet or will be on-site >60 days
Obtain notarized deed restriction affidavit
Submit to Solid Waste Management with site plan and screening details
Pay fees: $187.96 (annual) or $783.27 (3-year for multiple)
Public Right-of-Way
Apply online at geopermit.houstontx.gov/traffic/
Submit traffic control plan and safety measures
Provide insurance and restoration bond if required
Pay variable fees based on project scope
Houston Screening & Safety Requirements
Mandatory Screening
- ✓ Required adjacent to streets
- ✓ Required near residential areas
- ✓ Solid fencing or walls
- ✓ Landscaping barriers
- ✓ Height must obscure container
- ✓ Comply with sight lines
Safety Requirements
- ✓ Traffic control plan
- ✓ Safety markings/barriers
- ✓ Proper insurance
- ✓ Restoration bond
- ✓ Compliance documentation
- ✓ Site plan submission
Houston Market Considerations
Hurricane Season Preparation
Houston's hurricane season (June-November) can affect delivery schedules. Plan cleanup projects accordingly and secure containers during storms.
Heat and Humidity
Texas heat can make loading dumpsters challenging. Consider early morning or evening work during summer months when temperatures exceed 100°F.
Flooding Considerations
Houston's flood-prone areas may require special placement considerations. Discuss elevated placement with your rental company in flood zones.
Oil Industry Projects
Many Houston companies serve industrial and energy sector projects. Ask about specialized services for petrochemical waste if needed.
Complex Permit System
Houston's dual permit system is unique in the US. Budget for permit costs and allow extra time for commercial property applications.
Sprawling Metro Area
Greater Houston covers massive area. Delivery fees may vary significantly based on distance from provider locations.
Houston Permit Cost Breakdown
Private Property - Single Dumpster
- • Annual permit: $187.96
- • Required for: >50 cubic feet or >60 days
- • Includes: Screening requirements
Private Property - Multiple Dumpsters
- • Annual permit: $391.82
- • 3-year permit: $783.27
- • Notarized affidavit required
Public Right-of-Way
- • Mobility permit: Variable pricing
- • Traffic control costs additional
- • Insurance and bonds may apply
Houston Penalties & Enforcement
Violation Penalties
- • $50 - $2,000 depending on violation type
- • Daily accumulating fines for ongoing violations
- • Non-transferable permits - new owners need new permits
- • Non-refundable once issued
- • Appeals require bonds equaling twice the penalty
- • Administrative hearings for Chapter 10 violations
Houston Permit Contacts
Private Property Permits
Solid Waste Management
Phone: 832-393-0459
Mail: P.O. Box 1562
Houston, TX 77251
Public Property Permits
Houston Public Works
geopermit.houstontx.gov/traffic/
Type: Mobility Permits
Apply online only
Ready to Rent a Dumpster in Houston?
Calculate the right size for your project or apply for permits online
Last updated: September 2025 | Verify current requirements with Houston Public Works