Chesapeake, VA Trash & Recycling: Collection Schedule (2026)
Key Facts
- Earliest set-out
- 24 hrs before 7:00 a.m. pickup
- Normal start time
- Not before 7:00 a.m.
- Removal deadline
- Within 24 hrs after 7:00 a.m.
- Schedule authority
- Director of Public Works (62-56)
- Civil penalty
- Up to $100/violation/day
- Bulk trash timing
- Set out ≤3 work days early
Summary
Chesapeake's normal collection never starts before 7:00 a.m., carts can go out no earlier than 24 hours ahead of that, and must come back in within 24 hours after collection. The director of public works sets which day each street is served.
Normal collection service shall not begin prior to 7:00 a.m. All containers and bagged or bundled refuse shall be placed at the curb for collection no earlier than 24 hours prior to 7:00 a.m. of the day of collection. At the discretion of the department of public works and upon proper public notification, collection may begin earlier than 7:00 a.m. Once placed at the curb for collection, no container shall remain on the curb for a period exceeding 24 hours after 7:00 a.m. of the day of collection.
Full Breakdown
Sec. 62-56 puts the director of public works, subject to the city manager, in charge of removing all garbage and trash and gives the director authority to set the days of collection, the location of waste containers and other collection details, as long as the regulations don't conflict with Chapter 62. Sec. of collection day. at its discretion after proper public notice. Bulk trash collection is tied to the same schedule: it happens on the same day as regular garbage collection unless the department separately schedules it, and bulk items can be set out no earlier than three work days before that pickup (Sec. 62-58(d)).
Violations & Fines
Violating the time requirements in Secs. 62-57, 62-58 or 62-60 can draw a civil penalty of up to $100 per violation, with each day of the violation a separate offense, under Sec. 62-31(b). Written notice to the responsible person is required before a civil penalty is imposed, except that no notice is required after the third such notice has already been issued to the same person or entity.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What's the fine for putting cans out too early or leaving them too long?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Chesapeake
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