Trash & Recycling in South Bend, IN (2026)
4 verified trash & recycling rules for South Bend, Indiana, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Pickup Rules & Schedules
South Bend runs its own municipal trash collection through the Public Works Division of Solid Waste. Curbside trash, yard waste, and bulky items are picked up the same day, Monday through Thursday. Look up your day at southbendin.gov or by calling 311.
South Bend Trash Pickup Schedule & Rules
Some RestrictionsSouth Bend, IN, Code of Ordinances ch. 16, Sec. 16-6(a)
The City shall have exclusive jurisdiction over and the exclusive right to control the collection and disposal of residential refuse within the boundaries of the City of South Bend.
Bin Placement Rules
South Bend requires city-issued toters out by 6 a.m. on collection day, within two feet of the curb, lid closed and opening facing the street. Bins must sit at least three feet from other bins and objects, and cannot be blocked by a vehicle.
South Bend Trash Bin Set-Out & Placement Rules
Some RestrictionsCity of South Bend, Division of Solid Waste set-out requirements
Bins must be out by 6 am on day of pickup and placed within two feet of the curb with the lid closed and opening facing the street. Bins should NOT be blocked by a vehicle and should be at least three feet from other bins and objects.
Bulk Item Disposal
South Bend collects one large item free per household each month on your regular pickup day. Extra items run $20 per cubic yard. Appliances with refrigerant need a certificate confirming refrigerant removal before the City will haul them.
South Bend Bulk & Large-Item Pickup
Some RestrictionsSouth Bend, IN, Code of Ordinances ch. 16, Sec. 16-6(c)(4)
Each month, the first large item (for example, refrigerator, freezer, washer, dryer, table, chair, sofa, etc.) shall be free. Each additional item or cubic yard shall follow the rate structure set forth in Section 16-6(c)(1).
Recycling Requirements
Recycling in South Bend is handled by Borden Waste-Away Services through the St. Joseph County Solid Waste Management District, not the City. Recycling runs on a different day than city trash, so check the County's calendar for your route.
South Bend Curbside Recycling
Some RestrictionsLooking for St. Joseph County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement South Bend city rules.
Trash & Recycling in St. Joseph County →