Product Description
DAC Sentry Latch — Heavy Duty Dumpster Gate Latch
- One-side access — Designed for gates that are operated from outside only; ideal for dumpster enclosures.
- Heavy-duty steel — Robust, commercial-grade latch built for frequent use in tough environments.
- Wide gap range — Factory adjustability for 1" to 2-1/2" between gate and latch post.
- Weatherable finish — Zinc-plated steel with durable black powder coat.
- Stainless hardware included — Ships with 5/16" × 3-1/2" stainless machine screws.
- Versatile mounting — For steel, wood-on-steel, ornamental, vinyl, and wood gates with a flat mounting surface.
- Lock-ready — Provision for padlocking to secure the enclosure (padlock not included).
The Sentry Latch from DAC Industries is ideal for all gates that require access from one side only, particularly dumpster gates. This easy-to-use, lockable latch is made from heavy duty steel and features an outdoor powder coat that not only looks great, but adds rust protection as well. The Sentry Latch will work with virtually any gate material, including wood, metal, poly lumber, vinyl, and composite gates, as long as there is a flat surface to attach the included 5/16" x 3-1/2" machine screws. Secure the latch with a padlock that fits into a 3/8" x 5/8" hole, and use a drop rod to secure one of the gate leaves on double gates.
This latch is adjustable for gate gaps from 1" to 2-1/2", making installation on new and existing gates fast and easy.
Specifications
| Product | DAC Sentry Latch (Dumpster Gate Latch), Part No. 7000 |
| Access | Outside/one-side only |
| Gap Range | 1" to 2-1/2" adjustable |
| Finish | Zinc-plated steel with black powder coat |
| Included Fasteners | Stainless steel machine screws, 5/16" × 3-1/2" |
| Gate Materials | Steel, wood-on-steel, ornamental, vinyl (polyvinyl), wood |
| Security | Padlock-ready (padlock not included) |
Installation (Quick Steps)
- Layout — With gate closed, mark latch and catch plate locations to suit the target gap.
- Mount — Through-bolt plates using the included stainless screws; keep slightly loose for alignment.
- Set gap — Adjust within the 1"–2-1/2" range; verify smooth engagement.
- Tighten & secure — Snug hardware evenly; add padlock if required by site policy.
Buying Guide
- Application fit — Best for dumpster enclosures and service gates that only need outside access.
- Gap planning — Verify your design allows a 1"–2-1/2" latch gap; shim or adjust framing as needed.
- Double gates — If securing two leaves, plan a separate method to hold the idle leaf closed per your site’s spec.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the Sentry latch accessible from both sides?
- No. It is designed for one-side (outside) access only, which suits dumpster enclosures and similar gates.
- What gap will it accommodate?
- The Sentry provides a wide adjustable range of 1" to 2-1/2" between the gate and latch post.
- Is it lockable?
- Yes. The latch is padlock-ready so you can add a lock to meet your security requirements.
Comparison
- Sentry Latch (this product) — Heavy-duty, outside/one-side access only; wide gap range of 1"–2-1/2"; padlock-ready; ideal for dumpster enclosures and service gates.
- Strong Arm Walk-Gate Latch — Heavy-duty walk-gate latch; no drop rod required; designed for walk gates (round or square frame models); wide gap capability (range varies by model).
- Slide Bolt / Cane Bolt — Simple mechanical lock; typically requires a drop rod and usually inside access; good for securing an idle leaf on double gates.
- Butterfly Latch — Self-latching convenience; lighter duty and generally non-locking; better suited to standard pedestrian chain link gates than dumpster enclosures.