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Mobile, AL Trash & Recycling: Collection Schedule (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Garbage frequency
Once per week
Trash frequency
Every other week
Trash limit
2 cubic yards or 15 bags
Cart size
96- or 64-gallon, city-issued

Summary

The city collects household garbage once a week and household trash (bulky/yard waste) every other week, with carts assigned to each residence by the public services department.

(a)Frequency. Pickup of household garbage is once per week based on the household address...(a)Frequency. Pick-up is scheduled for every other week...Maximum collection limit for pick-up at no additional charge is limited to approximately two (2) cubic yards (three (3) feet by three (3) feet by six (6) feet) or the equivalent of fifteen (15) bags of leaves, per household, every other week.

View official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 67).

Full Breakdown

Mobile City Code Section 25-5(a) sets curbside household garbage pickup at once per week by household address, using a city-issued 96- or 64-gallon cart. Section 25-6(a) sets a separate every-other-week pickup for household trash, up to two cubic yards or the equivalent of fifteen bags of leaves at no additional charge, covering bulkier yard waste, furniture, and similar debris that doesn't fit in the garbage cart. Both schedules run on routes set by the department of public services, which must publish any route or schedule changes at least two weeks before they take effect.

Violations & Fines

Improperly set-out or oversized garbage and trash can go uncollected, and failing to comply with chapter 25's cart and pickup rules is a violation carrying up to a $350 fine.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often does Mobile pick up garbage?
Household garbage is collected once a week on a fixed route day; household trash (bulky items, yard debris) is collected separately every other week, per Sections 25-5 and 25-6.
Is there a limit on trash set out every other week in Mobile?
Yes, up to about two cubic yards or fifteen bags of leaves at no extra charge; anything more is billed as an oversized load.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Mobile

All Mobile rules

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