Tarrant County, TX Trash & Recycling: Bin Placement Rules (2026)

Tarrant County does not have a specific ordinance governing trash bin placement in unincorporated areas. Placement rules are instead imposed by the hauler contract and by HOA covenants where applicable. Standard guidelines require residents to place bins at the curb with the wheels against the street, handles facing the house, and at least three feet of clearance between containers so robotic arm trucks can service them. Bins should generally be placed by 7 AM on pickup day or the night before, and retrieved from the curb within 24 hours after collection. Texas Transportation Code Section 552.006 prohibits obstructing sidewalks, so bins cannot block pedestrian passage. Placement that blocks a driveway (including your own after the truck passes), fire hydrant, mailbox, or storm drain can trigger complaints, citations, or refused service. When bins are kept at the house between collections, most HOA covenants require them to be screened from street view behind a fence or in a side yard. Bins that remain at the curb for extended periods can become a property maintenance nuisance and trigger code enforcement in HOA neighborhoods. Commercial dumpsters require a separate service agreement and must comply with setback, screening, and drainage rules typically imposed at the permitting stage for the property use.