Pickup Rules & Schedules: Surprise vs Tempe
How do pickup rules & schedules rules compare between Surprise, AZ and Tempe, AZ?
Surprise has fewer restrictions than Tempe.
Surprise, AZ
Maricopa County
Maricopa County does not provide curbside trash collection in unincorporated areas. Property owners must contract with private waste haulers for pickup service. Collection schedules, bin types, and service levels are determined by the private hauler. Properties must be maintained free of accumulated garbage per Ordinance P-11.
View full Surprise rules →Tempe, AZ
Maricopa County
Tempe provides weekly curbside collection for trash, recycling, and green waste. Collection is performed using automated trucks. Bins must be placed correctly at the curb by 5 AM. The city assigns collection days by neighborhood. Holiday schedules may affect pickup days. Contaminated recycling bins may be rejected.
View full Tempe rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Surprise | Tempe |
|---|---|---|
| Collection | Private haulers only | - |
| County Service | No county trash collection | - |
| Schedule | Set by private hauler | By neighborhood, check city website |
| Sanitation | Ordinance P-11 requires clean lots | - |
| Frequency | - | Weekly curbside collection |
| Services | - | Trash, recycling, green waste same day |
| Bin Placement | - | By 5:00 AM, lids closed, handles toward house |
| Recycling | - | Contaminated bins may be rejected |
| Green Waste | - | Yard trimmings, branches under 4 ft |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Surprise FAQ
How do I find a waste hauler for my area?
Search the Maricopa County website for licensed private waste haulers serving unincorporated areas, or contact the county Solid Waste division for a list of providers.
What happens if I don't arrange trash service?
While there is no mandatory service requirement, allowing refuse to accumulate on your property can result in nuisance violations and code compliance enforcement.
Can I share trash service with a neighbor?
That depends on your waste hauler's policies. The county does not prohibit shared service, but your hauler may have contract terms that address single-household service.
Tempe FAQ
What day is trash pickup in my Tempe neighborhood?
Collection days are assigned by neighborhood. Check the city website or mobile app with your address for your specific schedule.
What goes in the recycling bin?
Paper, cardboard, plastic bottles/containers, glass, and metal cans. No plastic bags, food waste, or Styrofoam. Check Tempe's recycling guide.
What if my bin wasn't collected?
If your bin was properly placed and not contaminated, report the missed pickup to Tempe's solid waste division for a return trip.
Compare other topics
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