Sammamish, WA Trash & Recycling: Bin Placement Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Container type
- Leakproof, covered, outside garbage container
- Who supplies it
- Owner of every dwelling (16.25.225(3)(a))
- Rubbish accumulation
- Prohibited on exterior property
- Old appliances
- Cannot be stored outside (attractive nuisance)
- Recycling space
- Must meet WAC 51-50-009
Summary
Sammamish requires every dwelling to keep an approved leakproof, covered outside garbage container and bars any accumulation of rubbish or garbage on the property, under SMC 16.25.225.
(1) Accumulation of Rubbish or Garbage. All exterior property and premises, and the interior of every structure, shall be free from any accumulation of rubbish or garbage. ... (3) Disposal of Garbage. Every occupant of a structure shall dispose of garbage in a clean and sanitary manner by placing such garbage in an approved garbage disposal facility or approved garbage containers maintained for regular collection. (a) Garbage Facilities. The owner of every dwelling shall supply an approved leakproof, covered, outside garbage container.
Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: current through Ordinance O2026-598, and legislation passed through August 18, 2026).
Full Breakdown
' Subsection (2) requires occupants to dispose of rubbish 'in a clean and sanitary manner by placing such rubbish in approved containers,' and makes the property owner responsible for supplying 'approved covered containers for rubbish' and for arranging its removal. Subsection (2)(b) singles out old refrigerators and similar equipment: they 'shall not be discarded, abandoned or stored on premises' because they are defined as an attractive nuisance. ' Commercial operators face a parallel duty under subsection (3)(b) to provide leakproof containers with close-fitting covers for any garbage generated on site until it is hauled away.
Subsection (3)(c) cross-references the state building code, WAC 51-50-009, for the space that must be set aside for recycling and solid waste storage so it stays usable for both occupants and haulers. 25 under the Title 23 SMC civil code compliance process.
Violations & Fines
Uncontained garbage or rubbish is a Chapter 16.25 violation enforced under Title 23 SMC. SMC 23.100.010 sets an infraction penalty of up to $1,000, with noncompliance after a notice and order rising to $250 per day for the first 15 days, $500 per day through day 31, and $1,000 per day after that.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Sammamish require a covered garbage can?
Can I store an old refrigerator in my yard in Sammamish?
Does the code set a time for putting bins out for collection?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Sammamish
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How other cities in King County handle bin placement rules.