Cleveland County, NC Trash & Recycling: Bin Placement Rules (2026)

Section 11-34(a)(1) sets the storage standard that applies before any garbage leaves a property in unincorporated Cleveland County: containers must be durable, rust-resistant, nonabsorbent, watertight, rodent-proof and easily cleanable, fitted with a close-fitting, flytight cover, and equipped with handles or bails so they can be carried. A container that will be lifted and emptied by hand, rather than mechanically, cannot hold more than 35 gallons. Subsection (a)(2) adds a separate standard that applies regardless of container type: solid waste, rubbish or garbage cannot be stored or allowed to accumulate on a property in a way that feeds or shelters rodents and vermin, or creates a fire or safety hazard.

The same section also limits how long bulky or damaged items can sit outside: dilapidated furniture, appliances or machinery that the solid waste director considers a potential health hazard cannot be left outside a dwelling for more than 30 days, and perishable garbage cannot be stored more than one week in any container. Owners of multi-unit buildings or mobile home parks must additionally ensure every resident either pays the annual solid waste user fee, contracts with a licensed or franchised collector, or has the property owner haul waste to the landfill directly.