Charleston, WV Trash & Recycling: Bin Placement Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Curb placement limit
- within 5 feet of curb
- Earliest set-out
- 6:00 p.m. day before pickup
- Must be removed by
- 10:00 p.m. collection day
- Standard fine
- $25 per violation
- Landlord bulk-dump fine
- $500 per violation
Summary
Charleston requires refuse and recycling containers at the curb (or within 5 feet), set out no earlier than 6 p.m. the night before pickup and pulled in by 10 p.m. on collection day.
If refuse and/or recyclables are stored in standard containers, said container shall not be placed by the curb or edge of the traveled road way as defined in subsection (a) of this section before 6:00 p.m. on the day preceding the collection day nor after refuse is picked up on the day of collection, and must be removed from said curb or edge of the traveled road way no later than 10:00 p.m. on the day of collection.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 56).
Full Breakdown
The city's refuse code puts carts at the curb, or within five feet of it where there's no curb. Containers can't go out before 6:00 p.m. the evening before your collection day, and they have to come back in by 10:00 p.m. on collection day itself, the same window applies whether it's trash, recyclables, bulky waste, or bagged yard waste. Storing refuse outside otherwise requires a standard container; loose bags left out any other time violate the code.
Violations & Fines
General violations carry a $25 fine per offense (up to $100 for multifamily buildings with 4+ units and commercial establishments); landlords or agents who set out eviction/bulk refuse outside the allowed window face a $500 fine per violation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How early can I put my trash cart out in Charleston?
How far from the curb can the cart sit?
Is there an exception for residents who can't reach the curb?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Charleston
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