Garbage can enclosures can help keep neighborhoods clean and organized — but not all are allowed, especially if they encroach on the public right of way.
Before requesting a site inspection from San Francisco Public Works, please review the guidelines below to determine whether your request qualifies. This helps ensure City resources are used efficiently and inspections are conducted only when necessary.
Do You Need a Permit?
Enclosures on Private Property
If your proposed enclosure is entirely on private property, you do not need a permit from Public Works. However, you must comply with any applicable regulations from the Department of Building Inspection.
Enclosures in the Public Right of Way
If your enclosure will be located on a sidewalk, curb, or a space that resembles a driveway or setback, you may be building in the public right of way. In that case, a Minor Encroachment Permit (MEP) is required before beginning any work.
Note: Many front setbacks that appear to be private are legally part of the public right of way. If you're unsure, our staff can help make that determination. If you've received a notice from our department, your enclosure is located in the public right of way.
Who Conducts the Inspection?
The Outreach & Engagement (OnE) Team at San Francisco Public Works performs site assessments to determine if an MEP may be required. The purpose of the inspection is to assess whether your property qualifies for a formal recommendation.
Not all requests warrant a site visit. Please review the criteria below before submitting a request.
When a Site Inspection May Be Appropriate
- You received a citation from Public Works Code Enforcement for an unpermitted enclosure.
- You plan to build an enclosure in the public right of way.
- You lack garage or backyard access for toter storage.
- Your garage space is no longer usable for toter storage due to a conversion or other permanent condition.
When a Permit Is Unlikely to Be Recommended
- You have a garage but are using it for parking or personal storage instead of storing bins.
- You have side or backyard access that can accommodate your bins.
- The proposed enclosure would block pedestrian access, interfere with utilities, or pose a safety risk.
- You're requesting an inspection for an existing, unpermitted enclosure.
Important: We do not verify whether garage conversions are legally permitted units or unpermitted accessory dwelling units (ADUs). Our assessment focuses solely on site conditions and possible encroachment into the public right of way.
What to Expect from the Inspection
If your request qualifies, the OnE Team will:
- Schedule a site visit within 10 business days.
- Review any Notices to Repair, access limitations, and related documents.
- Provide a formal recommendation letter, if appropriate, to both you and Code Enforcement.
Note: A recommendation is not a permit. An MEP must be approved through a multi-agency review before any construction may begin.
The Law Behind the Policy
Regulations governing garbage can enclosures are based on Public Works Code Section 170 and Police Code Section 63, which prohibit unpermitted structures in the public right of way.
These rules were adopted by the San Francisco Board of Supervisors and amended in 2003 (Ordinance No. 87-03) to include fines of up to $300 per violation for noncompliance.
Reminder: Public Works enforces this ordinance but does not create it. To share feedback or propose changes, please contact your district supervisor.
How to Request an Inspection
Email dpw-garbageenclosures@sfdpw.org with the following:
- Your name and property address
- A brief description of your request
- Any supporting documents (e.g., Notice to Repair, permit numbers, site photos)
Our staff will review your submission and, if appropriate, forward it to a member of the OnE Team.
Working Together for a Cleaner, Safer San Francisco
We're here to help you navigate the permitting process while protecting access to shared public spaces. By reviewing these guidelines first, you’re helping ensure City services are used effectively.
Thank you for doing your part to keep San Francisco clean, safe, and accessible for all.
