TL;DR
Texas requires a TCEQ permit-by-rule registration ($100/vehicle) for hauling brush, construction waste, or demolition waste to Type IV landfills. Major cities have their own requirements: Houston requires a Solid/Special Waste Transporter Permit with a $150,000 bond or $1,000,000 pollution liability; Dallas requires a franchise; Austin and San Antonio require private hauler licenses.
What permits do I need to haul dumpsters in Texas?
TCEQ Registration
Anyone transporting brush, construction waste, or demolition waste in an enclosed container to a Type IV MSW landfill must file TCEQ Form 20008 under the permit-by-rule provision in 30 TAC 330.7(c). Registration fee is $100 per vehicle. Trip tickets (Form 20078) are required for each load.
Hazardous waste and Class 1 industrial waste transporters must register with TCEQ under 30 TAC 335.6(d).
Houston
Houston requires a Solid/Special Waste Transporter Permit from the Health Department with a $150,000 permit bond or $1,000,000 pollution liability insurance. A separate Combustible Waste Storage (Dumpster) Permit is required for all commercial dumpsters exceeding 50 cubic feet.
Dallas
Dallas requires a Solid Waste Collection Franchise per City Charter Chapter XIV and Code §18-32. Violation carries civil penalties up to $2,000.
Austin
Austin requires a Private Hauler License per City Code §15-6, Article 3 with vehicle decals required on both doors. Fines range from $100 to $2,000 for violations.
San Antonio
San Antonio requires a Private Hauler Permit from SWMD per City Code Chapter 14.
Important
Texas's major cities each have their own franchise or licensing systems. If you plan to operate across multiple Texas metros, budget for separate permit processes in each city.
What insurance do I need in Texas?
| Coverage Type | State Minimum | Houston Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial Auto Liability | $750,000 CSL (FMCSA) | $750,000 CSL |
| General Liability | Varies by municipality | Varies |
| Pollution Liability / Bond | Not state-required | $1,000,000 or $150,000 bond |
| Workers' Compensation | Not mandatory in TX | Recommended |
Texas is one of the few states that does not mandate workers' compensation insurance, but most municipal permits and contracts require it.
Official References
| Resource | Agency | Type |
|---|---|---|
| TCEQ Private Waste Collection Registration | Texas Commission on Environmental Quality | website |
| TCEQ Industrial & Hazardous Waste Transporter Registration | Texas Commission on Environmental Quality | website |
| Houston Solid/Special Waste Transporter Permit | City of Houston | website |
| Austin Private Hauler License | City of Austin | website |