L&I Announces New Dumpster Licensing and Mediallion Information

The City of Philadelphia Departments of Streets and License & Inspection have implemented a dumpster license fee and medallion program. The program addresses those businesses that currently have refuse or recyclable materials picked up by a private hauler. Please take the opportunity to review the new requirements and share them with your networks as this information is extremely important to those businesses that have private collection.  For more information, contact 215/686-8686.

Department of Licenses and Inspections Dumpster Medallion Program Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who is required to obtain a dumpster license and medallion?

A:  Anyone who uses a “container for refuse or recyclable materials” that is serviced by a business.  If the City of Philadelphia picks up your dumpster, you are not required to obtain a dumpster license and Radio Frequency Identification medallion.

Q: What is a Radio Frequency Identification medallion?

A: This is a small transmitting device, required by the Philadelphia Code, that must be attached to your dumpster.  You can obtain the medallion from the Department of Licenses and Inspections.  The device will transmit an individual dumpster medallion identification code to handheld computers utilized by city enforcement officers to obtain your individual license information in the field.  No private information is stored on the device itself.  If the device is not found in the required area of the dumpster,

Q: Do I have to obtain a license and medallion every year?

A:  The dumpster licenses are now required to be renewed on an annual basis.  However, so long as the medallion continues to operate, a new medallion does not have to be picked up.

Q: What are the license fees?