Key Facts Full Breakdown Violations FAQ Sources

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

Some Restrictions

Verified 3 weeks ago|Source: VMC § 6.12.110 Mandatory Collection – Containers Required (Ch. 6.12 Garbage Disposal) →

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Key Facts

Curb placement distance: Within 5 feet of curb or street edge
Ready by: 6 a.m. on collection day
Alley service rule: Within 5 feet of alley edge
Holiday delay rule: Mon–Fri holidays shift by 1 day
Hauler

Summary

Vancouver requires residents to place garbage carts and recycling bins within five feet of the curb on each collection day. Carts must be ready by 6 a.m. on collection day. Alley-served properties must place carts within five feet of the alley edge. Waste Connections of Washington is the city's

Full Breakdown

VMC Section 6.12.110 governs container placement for mandatory garbage collection. Unless enrolled in carryout service (HELICO or subscribed carryout), residents must place the garbage cart and any extra bags, together with recycling bins or cart, within five feet of the curb or edge of the public street on each regular collection day. Where alleys exist, carts must be placed within five feet of the alley edge. Recycling must be at the curb by 6 a.m. on the scheduled collection day. Holiday delays (Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's — Monday–Friday only) push collection back one day. Disputes over cart placement are resolved by city staff in consultation with the hauler.

Violations & Fines

Failure to comply with container placement requirements under VMC 6.12.110 may result in missed collection and civil enforcement under VMC Chapter 22.02. Repeated violations may lead to notices of violation and monetary penalties.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I roll my cart out the night before collection?

The city recommends placing carts out the morning of collection by 6 a.m. to deter scavenging. The code does not set a specific advance-placement limit, but overnight placement is discouraged.

What if I cannot wheel my cart to the curb?

Residents who qualify may apply for HELICO carryout service or subscribe to a carryout plan through Waste Connections. In these cases, the hauler collects from the property rather than the curb.

Are recycling carts placed the same way as garbage carts?

Yes. VMC 6.12.110 requires recycling bins and carts to be placed alongside the garbage cart, within five feet of the curb, on the scheduled biweekly recycling collection day.

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

Key Facts

Summary

Full Breakdown

Violations & Fines

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources & Official References

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