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South Bend, IN Trash & Recycling: Bin Placement Rules (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Set-Out Time
By 6 a.m. pickup day
Distance
Within two feet of curb
Clearance
3 feet from objects
Bin Sizes
48 or 96 gallon
Toter Replacement
$50 fee

Summary

South Bend requires city-issued toters out by 6 a.m. on collection day, within two feet of the curb, lid closed and opening facing the street. Bins must sit at least three feet from other bins and objects, and cannot be blocked by a vehicle.

Bins must be out by 6 am on day of pickup and placed within two feet of the curb with the lid closed and opening facing the street. Bins should NOT be blocked by a vehicle and should be at least three feet from other bins and objects.

Source: South Bend Municipal CodeView official code

Full Breakdown

The Division of Solid Waste issues residents a 48- or 96-gallon toter, and set-out rules are specific. Bins must reach the curb by 6 a.m. on your pickup day, placed within two feet of the curb with the lid closed and the opening facing the street. Keep each bin at least three feet clear of other bins, mailboxes, and parked cars so the automated truck arm can reach it. All trash must be bagged inside the city bin; bags left on top of the toter, on the ground, or in personal containers are not collected. E-waste, yard waste, loose debris, paint, chemicals, and hazardous materials are prohibited from the trash toter.

Violations & Fines

Improperly set-out or overfilled bins are simply left unemptied, and a return-trip fee of $10 applies for a second pass. Damaged or lost toters carry a $50 replacement fee under the Sec. 16-6 rate schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions

When can I put my trash bin out in South Bend?
Bins must be at the curb by 6 a.m. on your collection day, within two feet of the curb, lid closed and opening facing the street, and at least three feet from other bins or objects.
Will they take extra bags next to my bin?
No. All trash must be bagged inside the city-issued toter with the lid closed. Bags placed on top, on the ground, or in personal containers are not collected.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in South Bend

All South Bend rules

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