Decatur, GA Trash & Recycling: Collection Schedule (2026)

Section 82-34(b)(1) of the Decatur Code of Ordinances sets the baseline: refuse and recyclables are collected once each week from residential units, with an exception built in for exceptionally large piles of limbs that take longer than normal to load. Commercial establishments and multiple dwellings are handled differently under Section 82-34(b)(2): the director of sanitation sets collection frequency based on need, but recyclables at those properties must be picked up at least once per week regardless. Section 82-31 requires the director of sanitation to divide the city into mapped collection routes and areas, keep those maps and street lists on file for public inspection at the sanitation office, and provide copies to any resident who requests one and pays reproduction cost.

Section 82-34(a) allows the city to satisfy this schedule using licensed private haulers under contract to or authorized by the city, not just city crews. Dead pets are handled on a separate on-call basis under Section 82-34(b)(3): animal hospitals, curbsides and public rights-of-way only, bagged, and picked up during normal working hours, while large dead animals remain the owner's responsibility.