Richland, WA Trash & Recycling: Bin Placement Rules (2026)

Richland-owned refuse containers stay city property under RMC § 15.03.020(A), but the household controls where and when they sit at the curb. RMC § 15.03.030(D) requires containers set out for curbside pickup to be positioned by 6:00 a.m. on the assigned collection day, in a spot the collection truck can reach from the traveled roadway, with the lid opening turned toward the truck so it empties properly when tipped. The container and any extra refuse bagged beside it must keep three feet of clearance from obstructions, including other containers, and the resident must pull the container back off the public right-of-way within 24 hours of pickup unless the city allows otherwise.

Residents on cul-de-sacs, courts or lots set back from the main travel way must instead stage containers at the location the director designates along the main traveled way for safe, efficient pickup. Containers cannot otherwise sit in a street or public alley under RMC § 15.03.030(C), and no enclosure can be built around a city container without city review and approval under subsection (E). Because placement falls within RMC § 15.03.030(B) through (F), a violation triggers the administrative track at RMC § 15.05.010: the director can first place a compliance tag on the container, then issue an administrative notice of violation carrying a fine of $10.00 to $100.00 per occurrence and, on a second unresolved notice for the same conduct, revoke container service and refer the case for a civil infraction under RMC § 10.02.050(E).