Sammamish, WA Property Maintenance: Trash Bin Storage (2026)

Sammamish's container rules live in the property maintenance code, SMC 16.25.225 (Rubbish and garbage), not in a separate solid-waste ordinance. Subsection (1) requires all exterior property and the interior of every structure to be 'free from any accumulation of rubbish or garbage.' Subsection (2) requires occupants to place rubbish in approved containers; the owner of every occupied premises must supply approved covered containers for rubbish and is responsible for its removal. Discarded or abandoned refrigerators and similar equipment not in operation 'are defined as an attractive nuisance' and may not be stored on the premises. Subsection (3) requires garbage to be placed in approved garbage containers maintained for regular collection, and the owner of every dwelling must supply 'an approved leakproof, covered, outside garbage container.' Businesses must use approved leakproof containers with close-fitting covers. Subsection (3)(c) requires the recycling and solid waste storage space mandated by WAC 51-50-009 to be maintained and accessible to occupants and haulers. These container standards are enforced as property maintenance violations under SMC Title 23 and are public nuisances under SMC 23.30.010.