Fairfax County, VA Trash & Recycling: Bin Placement Rules (2026)

Fairfax County Code Chapter 109.1 and the Zoning Ordinance regulate residential trash container storage and placement. Containers must be rigid, watertight, have tight-fitting lids, and be of reasonable size (typically 32-96 gallons for standard carts). Most haulers provide carts with wheels for single-stream trash and recycling. Chapter 109.1 requires containers to be maintained in sanitary condition and prevented from becoming breeding habitat for vermin. Zoning Ordinance provisions generally require containers to be stored behind the front building line or otherwise screened from street view when not out for collection. Containers may be placed at the curb no earlier than the evening before collection day and must be returned to their storage location by the end of collection day (some HOAs impose stricter timing). Loose trash, overflowing containers, and containers placed in the public right-of-way for extended periods violate both Chapter 109.1 and the Zoning Ordinance. Dumpsters for commercial use or construction require separate permits and must comply with setback and screening requirements. Fines for container violations start around $50-100 per violation, escalating with continued non-compliance. Bear-resistant containers are not required in Fairfax County but may be helpful in neighborhoods with wildlife activity.