Pierce County, WA Trash & Recycling: Bin Placement Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- County setout time
- None (hauler tariff)
- Containment rule
- PCC 8.08.050(F)
- Driveway accommodations
- PCC 8.29.030(C)
- Limited-mobility option
- Required
Summary
Pierce County Code sets no countywide curb setout time, so cart placement in unincorporated areas follows the WUTC-certificated hauler's tariff. Waste must still be securely contained under PCC 8.08.050(F), and haulers must offer accommodations for long or steep driveways and residents with limited mobility under PCC 8.29.030.
Exceptions: Collection Alternatives for Restricted Access or Storage Situations, or for Residents with Limited Mobility... Because of long, steep and/or winding driveways, a resident would have difficulty in moving a large recycling container... Residents with special needs, such as physical infirmity or physical limitations, need reasonable accommodation.
Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: current through Ordinance 2026-515, and legislation passed through May 26, 2026).
Full Breakdown
The county nuisance code prescribes no specific setout hour or removal time; those terms come from the hauler's WUTC-approved tariff for the service area. What the code does require is that waste be "securely stored in receptacles or containers designed to prevent threats to human health or safety or to the environment until such solid waste enters a solid waste handling system" (PCC 8.08.050(F)). For access problems, PCC 8.29.030(C) directs haulers to work with residents where driveways are inaccessible, long/steep/winding, or where a resident has physical limitations - offering a drive-in tariff, a smaller 32-gallon cart, or another agreed solution. Carts damaged by the hauler's negligence are replaced free; customer-caused loss is at the customer's expense.
Violations & Fines
There is no county cart-setout fine. Waste not kept in adequate containers is a nuisance under PCC 8.08.050(F). Setout-time and container disputes are governed by the hauler's WUTC tariff.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time must I put my cart out?
My driveway is long and steep - do I have to drag the cart to the road?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Pierce County
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