What Should You Do if a Dumpster Is Blocking a Driveway or Walkway?

Living in a place like Simsbury means enjoying quiet neighborhoods and easy access to everything. Nothing disrupts that charm quite like stumbling upon a hulking dumpster plopped right in front of your driveway or sidewalk, especially if it’s making it impossible for you to get to work or the kids to school. A misplaced roll-off dumpster can even pose a real safety hazard by blocking emergency access or creating tripping risks. Here’s what to do if you come home from work and find one in your driveway.

What Should You Do If a Roll-Off Dumpster Is Blocking a Simsbury Driveway or Walkway?

Is It On Private Property?

Start by pinpointing the location, because that determines your first move and potentially whether a permit was required for it. If the dumpster is squarely on private property, no town permit is needed. In this case, politely approach the property owner or contractor first. Remember that you catch more flies with honey than vinegar, and see if a polite and friendly request won’t resolve the issue.

Knock on the door, leave a note, or call the rental company listed on the dumpster. Explain the issue calmly: “Hey, I see you’re tackling a big project—great job! But the dumpster’s edging into my driveway, and I’m having trouble getting out. Could we shift it a few feet?” Most folks will appreciate a neighborly vibe and cooperate, though, of course, some won’t.

Is It On Public Property?

If it’s on public property like the street, a sidewalk, or that grassy strip between the pavement and curb, things get more official. Simsbury requires a placement permit for dumpsters in areas like this to ensure they’re not causing undue obstruction.

Snap a photo for your records, note the time and date, and report it directly to the Simsbury Public Works Department at (860) 658-3222. They’re open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and can dispatch someone to verify the permit and enforce removal if needed. For after-hours urgencies, like if it’s blocking access during a storm, call the Simsbury Police non-emergency line at (860) 658-3100. They’ll treat it like any other roadway hazard.

How Urgent Is the Blockage, and Does It Affect Safety or Access?

If the dumpster is just mildly inconvenient, like if it’s partially overlapping your driveway during daylight hours, give the owner 24-48 hours to self-correct after your initial chat. But if it’s a full blockade that completely prevents you from driving in or out, or worse, impedes a wheelchair ramp, pedestrian path, or fire hydrant access, treat it as a priority.

Escalate immediately in these cases: call Public Works during business hours or the police dispatch if it’s evening, on a weekend, or if it’s blocking an emergency route. Describe it factually and not emotionally as best you can: “The dumpster at [address] is fully obstructing the driveway entrance, creating a hazard for vehicles and pedestrians.”

For your dumpster needs, work with a company that knows the rules and respects your property and time. Contact us today at Windsor Sanitation in Bloomfield for a quote.