Trash & Recycling in Tuscaloosa, AL (2026)
5 verified trash & recycling rules for Tuscaloosa, Alabama, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Pickup Rules & Schedules
Every premises generating garbage in Tuscaloosa must subscribe to city collection unless granted an exception. Single-family homes get once-a-week garbage pickup (up to three carts) plus once-a-week free trash service. Carts must be out by 6 a.m.; the residential rate is $10/month for the first cart.
Tuscaloosa Mandatory Weekly Garbage Collection
Some RestrictionsBin Placement Rules
Garbage carts, recycling bins and trash must be at the Tuscaloosa curb before 6 a.m. on collection day and removed within 24 hours. Carts should sit more than three feet from cars, mailboxes, fences and hydrants, away from utility lines. Waste set beside carts is a violation.
Tuscaloosa Cart and Bin Placement Rules
Some RestrictionsBulk Item Disposal
Tuscaloosa offers free weekly residential trash (bulky-item and yard-debris) pickup to garbage customers. Limbs must be cut under 8 feet long and 8 inches in diameter, placed 3 feet from objects. Up to 5 cubic yards is free; 5–20 yards is billed; over 20 yards is the resident's responsibility.
Tuscaloosa Bulk Trash and Yard Debris Collection
Some RestrictionsRecycling Requirements
Tuscaloosa recycling is voluntary and free. Garbage customers get a recycling bin collected the same day as garbage; drop-off trailers and electronics recycling are available. By code, recyclables set out become city property and only the city or its contractor may collect them.
Tuscaloosa Recycling: Voluntary and Free
Few RestrictionsIllegal Dumping
Tuscaloosa Code Sec. 13-62 makes it unlawful to dump or discharge garbage, trash, debris or litter on any public way, public or private premises, or vacant lot, including from a motor vehicle. Dumping in drainage ditches is separately barred. Violations carry municipal court penalties up to the city's general cap.