5 county-level rules, plus city-specific rules for 2 cities in Adams County, Colorado.
Verified from official government sources
Adams County does not run a single municipal trash route; residents in the unincorporated county contract with a private, county-licensed hauler. Since Ordinance No. 17 (effective Feb 17, 2024), all licensed haulers must be registered with the county.
Adams County Ordinance No. 17
Ordinance No. 17 'Ordinance for the Regulation of Solid Waste Hauling Businesses and Providing for Licenses for Such Businesses' became effective February 17, 2024.
In unincorporated Adams County, waste containers may be set in the front-yard area or at the street only for 24 hours to allow pickup, and every container must be covered. Store bins out of front-yard view the rest of the week.
Adams County Code Compliance FAQ — Trash Containers
Trash containers are only allowed in the front-yard area or street for 24 hours to allow for pickup.
Adams County does not provide free countywide bulk pickup for unincorporated homes; bulky items go through your private hauler, a licensed drop-off/landfill, or county cleanup events. Illegally dumping large items in the street or on a lot is prohibited.
Under Adams County Ordinance No. 17 (effective Feb 17, 2024), every licensed trash hauler serving unincorporated homes and businesses must offer curbside recycling collection. The county's goal is to raise recycling and diversion from about 16% in 2022 to 40% by 2034.
Adams County Ordinance No. 17 — Recycling
All solid waste haulers providing regular collection of landfill materials from residential, multi-family or commercial customers shall offer curbside recycling collection services.
Depositing trash on any public or private property in Colorado is illegal littering under CRS 18-4-511, carrying a mandatory fine of $20-$500 for a first offense. In unincorporated Adams County, report dumping in a street or alley to Public Works at 720.523.6875.
CRS 18-4-511(1)
Any person who deposits, throws, or leaves any litter on any public or private property or in any waters commits littering.
2 cities in Adams County have their own trash & recycling rules. Each link goes to that city's dedicated page with code citations.
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Adams County Ordinance Hub →