Driveway or street: the only question that matters
A container on private property needs no permission from the city. The moment any part of it sits on the street, sidewalk, or alley, it is in the public right-of-way and most cities require a permit. Some also require reflective tape or cones at night.
How the permit works
Right-of-way permits are issued by the city engineering or public works office, usually within a few business days. They specify the dates and the exact spot. Most haulers will pull the permit for you if you ask when you book, and add the fee to the rental.
What happens without one
Fines vary by city and are issued to the property owner, not the hauler. In some cities the container can be towed. A permit is cheap compared to either, and the wait is rarely more than a few days.
Ask the hauler these three things
Whether they pull the permit, whether the fee is in the quote, and whether the container can go on the driveway instead. A 20 yard fits a standard two-car driveway with room to open the car doors.
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