Finding the right Dumpster Service can be a challenge. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of dumpster regulations, service options, and disposal fees in Lexington, Kentucky, helping you navigate the process with ease.
Understanding Dumpster Requirements in Lexington
Dumpster services are mandatory for larger residential complexes in Lexington. This includes:
- Apartment buildings, townhouses, or condominiums with seven or more units.
- Complexes with multiple buildings totaling more than seven units, especially those sharing parking, entrances/exits, lacking direct street access, or where centralized garbage collection would obstruct pedestrian traffic.
Key Considerations for Dumpster Service
Before you request service, keep these important factors in mind:
- Permitting: A permit from the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government (LFUCG) is required for all dumpsters. Obtain this permit before placement. Dumpster rental companies often handle this process. Existing permits must be transferred to new tenants or owners.
- Costs: Dumpster rental and associated fees are the responsibility of the property owner or tenant. The city does not provide dumpsters.
- Site Inspection: LFUCG Waste Management conducts site inspections to ensure proper screening, accessibility for collection trucks, and absence of overhead obstructions. Permits are issued after successful inspections and fee payment ($25).
- Enforcement: Non-permitted dumpsters are subject to fines ranging from $25 to $500 and will not be serviced.
Dumpster Enclosure Guidelines
Proper enclosure ensures both functionality and aesthetics:
- Screening: Three-sided screening is required using materials like brick, stone, wood, or evergreen plantings.
- Access: A minimum 12-foot opening is necessary for collection truck access. Each additional dumpster requires an extra 10 feet of width.
- Barrier Posts: Two fixed barrier guard posts are mandatory for all screened enclosures.
- Pre-Approval: All dumpster enclosure designs require pre-approval from LFUCG Waste Management. Refer to the Dumpster Service Guide for pad area specifications.
Dumpster Service and Collection Details
Lexington provides bi-weekly collection for 2, 4, 6, and 8-yard dumpsters.
- Accessibility: Ensure 24/7 accessibility for collection trucks.
- Extra Collections: Schedule additional pickups online for a fee of $50 per container. Payment is required before scheduling. Contact (859) 280-8556 with questions.
- Payment Options: Pay for extra collections in person or by phone using check, cash, money order, or credit card.
- Exclusions: Dumpsters filled by compactors, temporary construction containers, and dumpsters on casters are not serviced.
Holiday Collection Schedule
Collection schedules are adjusted for holidays:
- Monday/Tuesday Holidays: Collection occurs the following day.
- Thursday/Friday Holidays: Collection occurs the preceding Wednesday.
Potential Service Disruptions
Be aware of conditions that can prevent collection:
- Obstructed access for collection trucks.
- Overfilled dumpsters exceeding lifting capacity.
- Prohibited materials in the dumpster.
- Overhead power lines.
- Dumpster requiring repairs.
Bulky Item Pickup and Disposal
Businesses, including apartment complexes, are responsible for disposing of their own bulky items. Apartment complexes should designate and obtain approval for a resident bulky item drop-off location. Appliances can be disposed of for free at Environmental Recycling (3899 Winchester Road).
Dumpster Maintenance Responsibilities
Maintaining a clean and functional dumpster is crucial:
- Cleanliness: Regularly clean the dumpster to prevent odors and unsanitary conditions.
- Debris Control: Prevent litter and debris accumulation around the dumpster.
- Repairs: Owners or leaseholders are responsible for all dumpster repairs and maintenance.
Understanding Disposal Fees
Monthly disposal fees are based on dumpster size and billed by the city:
- 2 cubic yard: $12.05
- 4 cubic yard: $24.10
- 6 cubic yard: $36.15
- 8 cubic yard: $48.20
Property owners can request a Tenant Agreement form from the Division of Revenue (859) 258-3340 to have tenants billed directly for their disposal fees.
Prohibited Items for Dumpster Disposal
The following items are strictly prohibited:
- Tires, liquids, wooden pallets, lumber, tree limbs/brush, sawdust, large engine parts, car parts, carpet/padding, large scrap metal, furniture, mattresses/box springs, pipe/plumbing materials, appliances, metal shavings, concrete/bricks, construction materials, excavated earth, compacted food waste, metal drums, wire binding, sewage, processed sludge, and hazardous/toxic materials.
Download the Dumpster Service Guide for detailed information and diagrams.
