When you’re planning a clean-up or renovation, finding the right spot to place your skip bin can sometimes be tricky—especially if your driveway space is limited. A common question we receive is whether skip bins can be left on the road or verge. The short answer: yes, but only with a council-issued permit. Here’s everything you need to know to keep your bin placement stress-free and compliant.
When You Need a Permit
If you’re placing your skip bin directly on your driveway, front lawn, or anywhere else on your private property, there’s usually no need for a permit. However, if the bin needs to sit on public land such as the verge (nature strip), footpath, or road, you’ll always need approval from your local council.
Public land includes areas like:
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The grassed verge between your property and the road
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Footpaths and walkways
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Council-owned streets, laneways, and parking bays
Even if the public verge is directly in front of your home, it’s still managed by your local council—which means obtaining approval is essential.
Council Permit Rules in Perth’s Southern Suburbs
Every council has slightly different rules for skip bin placement. If you live in the suburbs serviced by Backyard Bins, here’s what you need to know about obtaining a permit.
Melville Council
To place a skip bin on the verge, Melville Council requires:
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A permit application with a detailed site plan showing exact bin placement
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Clearances of at least 2.5 metres from road edges, 1 metre from footpaths, and 2 metres from street trees
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Fees starting at $110, plus $1 per square metre per month
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A refundable verge bond of $1,900 plus a $100 inspection fee (if related to building works)
You can find the application details on the City of Melville’s Verge Permit page.
Cockburn Council
The City of Cockburn requires a permit if placing your skip bin on the verge, with the following conditions:
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Skip bins must not exceed 8m³ in size
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Placement is permitted for a maximum of 14 days
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Skip bins cannot block footpaths or pedestrian access
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Applications must be submitted at least 5 business days prior to placement
Further details and applications are available on the City of Cockburn Skip Bin Permit page.
East Fremantle Council
In East Fremantle, skip bins placed on public land require a verge obstruction permit:
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Permit applications should be submitted at least 7 days before bin placement
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Permits typically last up to 4 weeks
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A bond or additional requirements such as traffic management plans may apply
Visit the Town of East Fremantle Skip Bin Permit page for further details and the application process.
✅ Tip: All councils require your skip bin provider to carry valid public liability insurance. Backyard Bins always ensures full compliance, so you won’t have to worry.
Safety and Legal Requirements
Even after your permit is sorted, it’s essential to follow council safety regulations and guidelines for verge placement. Non-compliance can lead to fines, bin removal, or even liability claims for any damage or accidents.
If you don’t secure the necessary permits, you might face:
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Significant council fines (often exceeding $1,000)
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Immediate removal of the skip bin without notice
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Responsibility for any damage to council property or utilities
To safely place your bin, always adhere to these common rules:
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Maintain at least 3 metres of clearance from roads, driveways, and pedestrian walkways
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Keep bins clear of street trees, hydrants, utility covers, and road signs
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Place reflective markers, cones, or hazard lights around bins, especially overnight
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Protect surfaces beneath bins (use timber boards or mats) to prevent damage to grass or pavement
For more tips, you might find our guide The Dos and Don’ts of Skip Bin Placement helpful.
Making It Easy with Backyard Bins
Navigating council rules and permits can be daunting, but at Backyard Bins, we’re here to simplify the process. Our experienced team regularly works with customers in Melville, Cockburn, Fremantle, and surrounding areas, providing clear advice on council permits, safety requirements, and bin selection.
We’ll help you by:
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Advising if you require a permit for your chosen bin location
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Assisting with suitable bin sizes that meet your local council’s requirements—check our skip bin size options here
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Coordinating a swift and compliant drop-off and pick-up service tailored to your needs
Need to place your bin on the verge? Get in touch before you start your project. At Backyard Bins, we ensure everything runs smoothly from permit to pick-up.
👉 Contact Backyard Bins today for easy, stress-free skip bin hire.
Backyard Bins Team
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