Virginia Beach, VA Trash & Recycling: Bin Placement Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Earliest set-out
- 5 p.m. day before collection
- Latest removal from curb
- 7 a.m. collection day
- Container size limit
- 32 gallons or 50 lbs
- First violation fine
- $25 civil penalty
- Repeat violation fine
- $50 per subsequent day
Summary
Virginia Beach requires curbside trash and recycling carts out no earlier than 5 p.m. the night before collection, off the curb by 7 a.m. collection day, and carts stored out of public view the rest of the week.
...shall be placed on the curb line of a city right-of-way no earlier than 5:00 p.m. on the day before collection and by 7:00 a.m. on the day of collection. All receptacles must be removed out of view of the public after collection on the day of collection, except as otherwise designated by the city manager or his designee.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 170 Update 1).
Full Breakdown
City code caps residential receptacles at 32 gallons or 50 pounds (automated carts up to 200 pounds), each with a tight-fitting cover kept closed except while filling or emptying. Carts go to the curb line of the public right-of-way no earlier than 5 p.m. the evening before pickup and must be off the curb by 7 a.m. on collection day, then kept out of public view until the next set-out: the same rule covers recycling bins and bulky-item piles. The waste management division, under the department of public works, enforces placement and can order automated carts removed if left out.
Violations & Fines
Violating placement or receptacle rules under §§ 31-26 or 31-28 draws a $25 civil penalty for a first offense and $50 for each later one; each day the violation continues counts separately (§ 31-3.1).
Frequently Asked Questions
When can I put my trash cart out in Virginia Beach?
How long can the empty cart stay at the curb?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Virginia Beach
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