Wake County, NC Trash & Recycling: Bin Placement Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- Code § 50.04(C)
- Container standard
- Durable, watertight, fly-tight cover
- Capacity required
- One week's accumulation
- Enforcement
- Solid Waste Division
Summary
Wake County requires garbage to be stored in a durable, watertight, fly-tight container in sufficient number to hold a week's trash, kept clean to prevent odor or nuisance.
Garbage shall be stored only in a container that is durable, rust resistant nonabsorbent, watertight and easily cleaned, with a close-fitting, fly-tight cover in place with adequate handles or bails to facilitate handling. ... The number of containers shall be adequate to store one week's accumulation of garbage. Each container shall be kept clean so that no odor or other nuisance condition exists.
Full Breakdown
County Code § 50.04(C) sets the standard for garbage storage in unincorporated Wake County: containers must be durable, rust-resistant, nonabsorbent and watertight, with a close-fitting, fly-tight cover and handles for handling. Owners must keep enough containers to hold a full week's accumulation, and each container must be kept clean so it doesn't create odor or nuisance conditions. Violations fall under the Chapter 50 penalty section.
Violations & Fines
Misdemeanor up to $500 fine or 30 days jail, or a civil penalty up to $500 under G.S. § 153A-123; each day is a separate offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of trash can Wake County residents use?
How many cans do I need?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Wake County
Compare Wake County to another location·View the North Carolina trash & recycling overview
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