The Guide to Dumpster Enclosures: Types & Sizes
Key Takeaways
Dumpster enclosures help hide waste containers, contain loose trash, and keep commercial properties looking cleaner.
Common materials include brick, concrete block, metal, and wood, with masonry being a popular choice for long-term durability.
There is no set standard dumpster enclosure size. Dimensions depend on the number and size of dumpsters and the space needed for pickup.
In Utah, a dumpster enclosure can cost several thousand dollars to well over $10,000, depending on its size, materials, gates, site conditions, and the amount of concrete or foundation work needed.
Local regulations might affect the enclosure’s height, location, gates, drainage, screening, and access requirements.
What is a Dumpster Enclosure?
A dumpster enclosure is the fenced-in structure built around a dumpster to keep the trash area contained and out of plain sight. You’ve probably seen them behind restaurants, stores, or apartments, without really thinking about them. Most are made from materials like brick, concrete, wood, or metal and have a gate that can be opened when it's time for trash pickup. They help keep a property looking a little cleaner, prevent loose garbage from blowing around, and can make it harder for animals or other people to get into the dumpster.
There isn’t one enclosure design that works for every property, though. The size of the dumpster, how many containers you have, where they’re located, and how garbage trucks need to reach them all affect the design. We’ll get into all the details, along with the different sizes, materials, costs, and benefits as you continue reading.
What Are the Different Types of Dumpster Enclosures?
Dumpster enclosures can be built in several different ways. The right choice generally comes down to durability, appearance, budget, and the type of property it’s being used for. Below is a list of some of the most common types of dumpster enclosures:
Brick dumpster enclosures: Brick provides a clean, finished appearance and can easily be matched to the surrounding existing buildings or other masonry on the property. It’s also very durable, which makes it great for long-term use.
Concrete block dumpster enclosures: Concrete masonry units (CMU) are a popular option for commercial dumpster enclosures because they’re strong, relatively low-maintenance, and can stand up well to everyday wear.
Stone or masonry enclosures: Natural or manufactured stone can give an enclosure a more polished, finished look, especially when the main goal is to blend into the property’s existing landscaping or architecture.
Wood dumpster enclosures: Wood is usually less expensive upfront and is nice because it provides plenty of design flexibility. However, it generally requires more maintenance than masonry and might not last as long.
Metal dumpster enclosures: Metal panels or fencing can provide a strong, practical way to screen dumpsters without building full masonry walls. They’re relatively low-maintenance and are often paired with steel gates for easy access during trash pickup.
Mixed-material enclosures: some designs combine masonry walls with steel gates, decorative panels, or other materials. This design is nice because it provides the strength of masonry while keeping the enclosure practical for regular trash pickup.
For a permanent commercial dumpster enclosure, brick, block, and other masonry materials are especially common because they offer a good combination of strength, appearance, and long-term durability.
Commercial Dumpster Enclosures
Commercial dumpster enclosures take more abuse than a lot of people realize. Dumpsters are constantly being rolled in and out, gates are opened and closed, and garbage trucks need enough room to empty the container without damaging the surrounding structure. These are all reasons that brick, concrete block, and other masonry materials are so common for commercial dumpster enclosures. These materials are strong, hold up well outside, and don’t require the same level of upkeep as some other materials.
Masonry can also make a dumpster area look like it fits in or belongs with the rest of the property. Brick or block can also easily be matched or coordinated with the main building. This is especially helpful with restaurants and shopping centers where the dumpster might be visible to customers or people passing by.
What are the Different Sizes of Dumpster Enclosures?
Dumpster enclosures don’t come in just one standard size. The right dimensions will depend on things like the size and number of dumpsters, along with enough room to move and access them. A single-dumpster enclosure might be around 10 to 12 feet wide and deep, while an enclosure for two dumpsters can be 20 feet wide or more.
Keep in mind that the dumpster itself isn’t the only thing that determines the size of the enclosure. You also need to account for gates, clearance around the containers, employee access, and enough space for garbage trucks to handle pickup. Local building or zoning requirements can also affect the allowable dimensions and placement as well. Basically, each enclosure should be planned around the property and how it will actually be used.
What Are the Benefits of Dumpster Enclosures?
A dumpster enclosure might seem like a pretty simple addition, but it can actually make a noticeable difference in how a commercial property looks and functions. Below are some of the biggest benefits of dumpster enclosures:
Better appearance
Less scattered trash
Added privacy
Fewer unwanted visitors
More organized waste areas
Long-term durability
A more finished and professional-looking property
How Much Does it Cost to Build a Dumpster Enclosure in Utah?
The cost to build a dumpster enclosure in Utah can range from several thousand dollars for a relatively simple project to well over $10,000 for a larger custom masonry enclosure. Size, materials, site conditions, gates, and the amount of concrete or foundation work needed can all make a big difference in the final price.
There are also a few expenses that are sometimes overlooked when figuring out budgets that are worth considering. Concrete work, excavation, drainage, permits, heavy-duty gates, and matching the brick or block to an existing building can all affect the overall total. Because every property is different, getting an estimate based on the actual site is usually the best way to get a better idea of what you’d be spending.
Build a Dumpster Enclosure That Fits Your Property
If it’s done right, a dumpster enclosure is one of those features you might not even notice right away, and that’s the point. It should fit naturally into your property, provide easy access when you need it, and be tough enough to handle years of everyday use.
If you’re planning a new dumpster enclosure or have another masonry project in mind, contact our team at S&R Custom Masonry in Salt Lake City. We can help with brick masonry, block, stone, and other custom masonry work for commercial and residential properties, including retaining walls and home additions throughout the Salt Lake area, including Lehi, Herriman, and the rest of the Wasatch Front.
Dumpster Enclosures FAQs
Can You Build Your Own Dumpster Enclosure?
Yes, but it can be a more complicated project than you might think. You'll need to consider the foundation, gates, drainage, dumpster clearance, and garbage truck access. Commercial enclosures might also need to meet local building and zoning requirements.
What Is the Standard Size for a Dumpster Enclosure?
There is no single standard size. A single-dumpster enclosure is often around 10 to 12 feet wide and deep, but the right dimensions depend on the dumpster, required clearance, and local guidelines.
What Are the Most Common Materials for Dumpster Enclosures?
Brick, concrete block, wood, and metal are all quite common. Brick and concrete block are especially popular for commercial properties because they’re durable and require very little maintenance.
What Are Some Regulations for Dumpster Enclosures?
Rules will vary by location but may cover enclosure height, setbacks, gates, drainage, screening, and garbage truck access. Always check your local Utah city or county requirements before building.
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