Louisville, KY Trash & Recycling: Bin Placement Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Earliest set-out
- 4 p.m. day before
- Must be out by
- 6 a.m. collection day
- Cart removal deadline
- 4 p.m. next day
- Loose bags
- Not allowed outside cart
- First-offense fine
- $50 per day
Summary
Louisville Metro households in the Urban Services District must set out garbage, recycling, and yard waste in Department-provided carts by 6 a.m. on collection day, no earlier than 4 p.m. the day before, and pull carts in by 4 p.m. the next day.
All household garbage, recycling, and yard waste must be set out in the cart provided by the Department or approved containers meeting the requirements of § 51.507. No bags containing garbage or recycling can be set outside of the containers. ... must be set out by 6:00 a.m. on the collection day set by the Department, and may be set out no earlier than 4:00 p.m. on the day before collection. ... must be removed from the street, alley, sidewalk or other public right-of-way ... no later than 4:00 p.m. the day after collection.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-47: Supplement contains: Local legislation current through Ordinances passed by the Council and approved by the Mayor as of July 1, 2026).
Full Breakdown
The Metro Solid Waste Management Department requires household garbage, recycling, and yard waste to go out in the cart it provides, or in containers meeting the § 51.507 specifications; loose bags left outside the cart are not allowed. Carts may reach the curb no earlier than 4 p.m. the day before pickup and must be out by 6 a.m. on collection day; owners must pull carts back off the street, alley, or sidewalk by 4 p.m. the day after collection. These rules govern the Urban Services District; home rule cities inside Jefferson County, such as Anchorage or St. Matthews, that run their own collection are not covered.
Violations & Fines
Violating § 51.405 carries a civil fine of $50 to $2,500 per day, enforced through the Code Enforcement Board; a first offense within two years is fined a flat $50 per day.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time can I put my garbage cart out in Louisville Metro?
Can I leave loose trash bags next to the cart?
Does this rule apply in Anchorage or St. Matthews?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Louisville
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