Dumpster permits in Grand Rapids

The City of Grand Rapids requires a Temporary Occupancy Permit whenever a person or company uses part of the public right-of-way for short-term private use, and the city lists dumpsters and storage pods among those uses. Either you or the rental company can apply; ask on the call which of you will handle it.

• Apply online through the city's Citizen Access system, or in person at the Development Center, 1120 Monroe Ave NW, 3rd floor (616-456-4100, weekdays 7:30 am to 4 pm). Paper forms aren't accepted.
• Attach a certificate of insurance that names the City of Grand Rapids as additionally insured and shows the project address. The city suggests asking your homeowners or liability insurance agent.
• A traffic control plan is not needed for a dumpster or pod request.
• If parking meters sit inside the space, they are reserved and hooded through the Mobile GR app.
• Pay the permit fee by card online. The city says to expect a reply within one to two business days.

Allow for that review time when you pick a drop-off date.

If the driveway is long enough, keeping the container on it avoids the application and the insurance certificate. A shorter 10 or 15 yard box fits more driveways than people expect. The placement guide covers measuring the spot.