Durham County, NC Trash & Recycling: Bin Placement Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Set out by
- 5 a.m. collection day
- Distance from curb
- No more than 3 feet
- Spacing
- 3 feet from objects/carts
- Remove empty carts
- Within 24 hours
- Contents
- Green garbage, blue recycling
Summary
Durham residents must set garbage, recycling, and bulky items at the curb by 5 a.m. on collection day, place carts no more than 3 feet from the curb, keep them clear of obstructions, and remove empty carts within 24 hours.
Residents are to place garbage, recycling, and/or bulky items, at the curb on their collection days no later than 5 a.m. ... Once emptied, carts must be removed from the curb within 24 hours after pickup.
Full Breakdown
The City of Durham's official set-out rules require garbage, recycling, and bulky items to be at the curb no later than 5 a.m. on collection day. Carts must sit no more than 3 feet from the curb, at least 3 feet apart, and at least 3 feet from mailboxes, hydrants, trees, or utility poles, and must not be blocked by vehicles or other obstructions. All garbage must be inside the green cart and all recyclables inside the blue cart: loose or bagged material beside carts is not collected. Once emptied, carts must be removed from the curb within 24 hours. Sec. 58-130 also bars leaving receptacles on the street on non-collection days.
Violations & Fines
Carts set more than about 5 feet from the curb, blocked, or overfilled with loose material are not collected. Leaving receptacles on the street off-schedule violates Sec. 58-130, enforced by a civil remedial fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far from the curb should my cart be?
When must I bring carts back in?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Durham County
Compare Durham County to another location·View the North Carolina trash & recycling overview
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