How to Get a Private Hauler License in Austin, Texas (And Why Dumpster Dogs is Certified)
If you’re collecting trash, recycling, or organics in Austin for a fee, you’re legally required to hold a Private Hauler License under City Code 15-6, Article 3. Whether you’re running a roll-off dumpster company or hauling yard waste, Austin has strict licensing requirements — and at Dumpster Dogs, we’re proud to be fully certified and listed in the City of Austin’s official database.
Who Needs a Private Hauler License in Austin?
According to the City of Austin, you must obtain a license if:
You collect solid waste, recycling, organics, brush, or construction debris for a fee.
You operate within city limits, even if your business is based outside Austin.
You use any type of commercial vehicle for transporting these materials.
Note: Vehicles that transport recycling or organics only are exempt from the fee but still require licensing and must display blue decals.
License Fees & Renewal Cycle
Annual renewal period: January 1–31
License expires: December 31
Standard fee: $365 per vehicle (for trash and landfill hauling)
Recycling/compost-only vehicles: Fee exempt, but must be registered
Adding Vehicles Mid-Year?
You can submit an addendum application with updated insurance, inspection, and prorated fees. New decals will be issued for each added vehicle.
Application Requirements
To obtain or renew your license, you must submit the following:
Completed application form
Proof of liability and auto insurance
$250K per person / $500K per incident (bodily injury)
$100K (property damage) or $1M combined single limit
Current state inspection certificate for each vehicle
Semi-annual tonnage reports
Payment of applicable fees
Compliance & Penalties
Failure to comply can result in:
Fines starting at $100 for a first offense
Up to $2,000 for repeat violations
License suspension or revocation
Where to Apply
You can apply or renew your license by:
Emailing: DSDHaulerLicense@austintexas.gov
Calling: 512-974-9035 or 512-974-9142
Downloading forms from the City of Austin’s Development Services Department website
Once approved, vehicle decals will be mailed. You must place them clearly on both driver and passenger doors.
Dumpster Dogs Is Proud to Be a Certified Private Hauler
At Dumpster Dogs, we take compliance seriously. We’re officially listed in the City of Austin’s Haulers Licensed by City of Austin database — which means we:
✅ Meet all city licensing and insurance requirements
✅ Report tonnage transparently
✅ Operate clean, inspected vehicles
✅ Are legally authorized to provide waste, recycling, and compost hauling services in Austin
We’re proud to uphold the highest standards for safety, environmental responsibility, and compliance.
Why This Matters for You
Hiring a licensed hauler like Dumpster Dogs protects you from liability and ensures:
Your waste is disposed of properly
Your project remains city-compliant
You work with a team that values transparency and service
You can even verify our license directly through the City of Austin’s public dataset.
Final Takeaways
Requirement | Details |
---|---|
License Needed? | Yes, for all paid waste/recycling haulers |
Renewal Period | Jan 1–31 annually |
Fees | $365 per vehicle (unless recycling-only) |
Certification | Dumpster Dogs is fully licensed |
How to Verify | Search the City of Austin’s hauler license registry |
Need a Certified Dumpster Hauler in Austin?
Contact Dumpster Dogs — your local, licensed, and fully compliant waste partner.
📞 Call us today or request a quote online.
📍 Serving Austin and surrounding areas with reliable service, fast drop-offs, and no missed calls.