Houston requires trash and recycling bins to be placed at the curb at least 3 feet apart from other objects on collection day. Bins must be accessible and not blocked. Chapter 39 governs solid waste placement requirements.
Under Houston Solid Waste Management Department rules and Chapter 39, the 96-gallon recycling cart and garbage container must be placed at the curb at least 3 feet from other carts, mailboxes, trees, parked cars, and other obstructions. This spacing allows the automated collection truck arms to safely operate. Containers must be placed with lids facing the street. Bins must fully close with lids shut and must not be overfilled or overflowing. Blocked or inaccessible carts will not be emptied. Between collection days, many neighborhood deed restrictions require bins to be stored out of view from the street, though this is not a municipal requirement.
Improperly placed or blocked bins may not be collected. Repeated violations may result in warnings. Litter violations carry Chapter 39 fines.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Harris County.
See how other cities in Harris County handle bin placement rules.
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