How to Spec for a Trash Enclosure Gate
Dumpster gates aren’t the flashiest part of a project — but when they’re done wrong, they definitely get attention. City inspectors flag them, property managers complain, and suddenly a simple enclosure turns into a rework.
We’ve built a lot of custom trash enclosure gates for GCs across the Southeast, and if there’s one thing we know: getting it right up front saves a ton of time (and pain) later. Here’s a quick guide to help you spec the right gate for your next job.
1. What’s the local code?
The very first thing is to know your local code. Every city and county has their own rules when it comes to trash enclosures. Some require a certain height, some have material restrictions, and many care about how the gate looks from the street.
Most common requirements:
Minimum 6' tall walls/gates
Gates must fully screen bins from public view
No chain link (yep, even with slats)
Adequate swing clearance and access for trash trucks
2. Know What the Gate Is Mounting To
Are you framing walls with wood? CMU block? Steel posts set in concrete? We can provide posts that just need to be dropped in. We’ll coordinate with your concrete team.
This makes a difference when we’re fabricating the gate. We build to fit your site conditions, whether you're bolting to existing posts or dropping new ones. We just need to know what you’re working with.
3. Dumpster Enclosure Dimensions (and Give Yourself Room)
Don’t rely on the drawings. If the walls are already built, field measure the clear opening between them — inside face to inside face. This is extremely critical to get the trash enclosure gate dimensions right as it prevents last-minute on-site fixes that may affect the look or functionality of the gate. Triple-check measurements.
Other things to note:
Desired gate height (match the wall or go lower?)
Will it swing in or out?
Is it a single gate or double?
We can work off drawings too, but real measurements are always better. Our gates are built to spec, so they install cleanly without site mods.
4. Match the Look of the Build
Let’s be honest — most dumpster gates are an afterthought. But when they look good, they actually elevate the property. We can design gates to match the vibe of your project:
Modern (horizontal slats)
Industrial (corrugated or raw steel)
Traditional (vertical pickets)
Clean and minimal (flat panel)
5. Pick the Right Material
We typically recommend:
Steel if you want max durability
Aluminum if you’re near the coast or want something lighter
Both get a weather-resistant coat.
6. Don’t Forget the Hardware
What kind of latch do you need? Lockable? Soft-close? Simple gravity latch?
We’ll guide you based on your use case. For most commercial jobs, you want:
A drop rod or cane bolt for the passive gate
A heavy-duty latch (padlock-ready)
Hinges that won’t sag over time
We build all of that into the design, so install is straightforward.
7. Know Who’s Installing It
Some GCs have a fence guy or site carpenter handle install. Others hire us to do it. Our gates are shipped fully welded and come with instructions, hardware, and recommendations for anchoring.
Spec’ing a dumpster gate doesn’t have to be complicated. Just make sure you’re clear on:
Local code
Mounting surface
Actual opening size
Gate style + materials
Hardware + install plan
If you’re not sure, shoot us the drawings or a photo of the site and we’ll walk you through it. At MSFC-Custom, we build enclosure gates that look good, last long, and actually make life easier for GCs.
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