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

Section 58-33 requires refuse receptacles to be made substantially of metal or plastic, watertight, and fitted with tight-fitting covers and strong handles. Section 58-35 adds that all garbage receptacles must be constructed and maintained, and kept covered, so as to prevent flies from entering at all times. Section 58-34 bars using any receptacle that doesn't meet those standards, or that has ragged or sharp edges or other defects that could hamper or injure the collection crew, for holding yard waste or other material set out for collection; on notice from the director, a defective receptacle must be promptly replaced with a compliant one as a condition of continued collection.

Section 58-36 separately protects the roll-out carts and recycling bins the city itself provides: it is unlawful to deliberately set fire to one, put hot ashes in it, drive over it, or otherwise crack, damage, or destroy it. The director of sanitation assesses a civil penalty of $100 plus the cost of replacing the cart or bin for each violation, and a person assessed can request a hearing with the city manager within ten days of the notice, with a decision due within 30 days that is final.

The same conduct is also charged criminally as a misdemeanor, carrying a maximum fine of $100 and up to 30 days imprisonment. For multifamily and commercial sites using stationary bulk containers instead, Section 58-68 requires the container's location to allow safe truck access while being kept as aesthetically pleasing as circumstances reasonably allow.