Bismarck, North Dakota · 2026 Permit Guide
Dumpster Permit in Bismarck
A permit IS required for street/sidewalk placement in Bismarck. Typical cost: Contact City Engineering for current fee. Processing: Apply at Bismarck Engineering (221 N 5th St, 2nd floor) or via e-TRAKiT online.
- ·Driveway / private property: no permit needed in Bismarck.
- ·Street / right-of-way: permit required in Bismarck.
- ·Bismarck permit cost: Contact City Engineering for current fee.
- ·Processing time: Apply at Bismarck Engineering (221 N 5th St, 2nd floor) or via e-TRAKiT online.
- ·Apply directly via the city: https://www.bismarcknd.gov/334/Permits-for-Work-in-Rights-of-Way
- ·2 Bismarck haulers — many will pull the right-of-way permit on your behalf.
- ·Penalty for unpermitted street placement: typically $100-$500/day plus immediate removal orders.
When you need a permit in Bismarck
Driveway / private property
No permit required. If the dumpster sits entirely on your driveway, parking lot, or yard, you don't need a permit.
Street / sidewalk / right-of-way
Permit IS required. Issued by Bismarck's public works or transportation department.
Permit details — Bismarck
ROW permit required for any work within City ROW (street, sidewalk, and boulevard from front property line to front property line on opposite side). Apply at Engineering or via e-TRAKiT online portal. Solid Waste contact: 701-355-1700 ext. 3.
Applyhttps://www.bismarcknd.gov/334/Permits-for-Work-in-Rights-of-Way
How to apply in Bismarck
- Step 1
Confirm placement requires a permit
Driveway / private property in Bismarck: usually no permit. Street / sidewalk / public ROW: permit required.
- Step 2
Apply with the city
Submit your application at https://www.bismarcknd.gov/334/Permits-for-Work-in-Rights-of-Way. You'll provide the dumpster size, exact placement location, rental dates, and the hauler's name. Fee is paid at submission.
- Step 3
Display the permit & follow conditions
Permits must usually be displayed on the dumpster. Some cities require reflective markers, traffic cones, or barricades. File a renewal before the original permit expires if your project runs long.
Tip: many Bismarck haulers will pull the permit for you and add the cost to your invoice. Ask before you book.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a permit for a dumpster in Bismarck?
In Bismarck, North Dakota, a permit IS required when the dumpster is placed on public right-of-way (street, sidewalk, or alley). Driveway placement on private property typically does not require a permit. ROW permit required for any work within City ROW (street, sidewalk, and boulevard from front property line to front property line on opposite side). Apply at Engineering or via e-TRAKiT online portal. Solid Waste contact: 701-355-1700 ext. 3.
How much does a dumpster permit cost in Bismarck?
In Bismarck, the dumpster permit cost is Contact City Engineering for current fee. Always confirm the current fee with the issuing department before applying.
How long does it take to get a dumpster permit in Bismarck?
Processing time in Bismarck is typically Apply at Bismarck Engineering (221 N 5th St, 2nd floor) or via e-TRAKiT online. Apply at least a week before your project start date to avoid delays. Some cities offer same-day or expedited permits for an additional fee.
Where do I apply for a dumpster permit in Bismarck?
Apply via the City of Bismarck permit page at https://www.bismarcknd.gov/334/Permits-for-Work-in-Rights-of-Way. ROW permit required for any work within City ROW (street, sidewalk, and boulevard from front property line to front property line on opposite side). Apply at Engineering or via e-TRAKiT online portal. Solid Waste contact: 701-355-1700 ext. 3.
Will the hauler pull the permit for me?
Many Bismarck dumpster rental companies will pull the right-of-way permit on your behalf and pass the cost through on the invoice. Others require you to apply directly. Always ask upfront — if the hauler handles it, get written confirmation that the permit will be in place before delivery.
See also
Find a Bismarck hauler who handles the permit
Compare 2 Bismarck dumpster rental companies. Most will pull the right-of-way permit on your behalf.