Do you need a dumpster permit in Memphis, TN?

In your driveway, usually not. On the street, sidewalk or a parking lane, usually yes. Here's what Memphis's official sources say.

Permit: Street obstruction permit (Memphis Code 12-4-5: obstructions of a street for private use need city treasurer approval and permit)
Issued by: City of Memphis - permit issued by the City Treasurer or designee per Code 12-4-5 (not Public Works per code text)
Fee: no fee published for a roll-off in the street; the downtown $200.00 per month location permit fee (Code 9-56-26.1) applies to garbage dumpsters and expressly excludes open-top roll-off construction containers
Key rules: 12-4-5: unlawful to obstruct streets, alleys or ROW with boxes or any other thing; placing obstructions for private use without a city treasurer permit is a misdemeanor. 9-56-26.1 downtown district dumpster rules (ROW placement only by exception, design review board site designation, $200/month) cover covered garbage dumpsters, not roll-offs.
Source: library.municode.com · library.municode.com

Checked October 2026. City rules change — confirm with the issuing office before placing a dumpster. This is general information, not legal advice.

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