Roswell, GA Trash & Recycling: Pickup Rules & Schedules (2026)
Key Facts
- Banned items
- Vehicle batteries, hazardous waste
- Applies to
- Garbage and recycling carts alike
- Penalty basis
- Code Sec. 1.1.3, plus state/federal law
- Guidance
- On file at Public Works dept.
Summary
Roswell's curbside collectors won't take vehicle batteries or hazardous waste, and setting them out for pickup is a code violation with its own penalty, separate from ordinary garbage rules, under Sec. 24.2.5(d)(1).
The placement of the following prohibited items in receptacles placed on the curb for pickup by the city is unlawful and punishable according to section 1.1.3 of this Code in addition to any federal and state penalties. The environmental/public works department shall maintain, on file, information regarding proper disposal practices for prohibited items.a.Vehicle batteries.b.Toxic, caustic, infectious, contagious, explosive or otherwise hazardous waste: The service provider shall not collect nor handle toxic, caustic, infectious, contagious, explosive or otherwise hazardous waste for disposal. Such waste shall be disposed of in accordance with federal, state and local laws and procedures.
(2)Items similar to, but not limited by the following, may be collected curbside only after payment by phone or in person at the City of Roswell Finance Department:a.Household appliances and furniture.b.Carpets or carpet scraps.c.Bed mattresses and box springs.(3)Curbside collection of more than five (5) items must be approved by the environmental/public works director or his/her designee. Additional fees may apply.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 17 | Unified Development Code: Supplement 5).
Full Breakdown
Some items are simply off-limits for Roswell's curbside service because of their hazard or nature. Sec. 24.2.5(d) bars vehicle batteries and toxic, caustic, infectious, contagious, explosive or otherwise hazardous waste from garbage and recycling receptacles: the service provider will not collect or handle it. Putting a banned item in a cart for pickup is unlawful on its own, punishable under Sec. 1.1.3 of the Code, on top of any federal or state hazardous-waste penalties that apply. The environmental/public works department keeps proper disposal guidance for these items on file.
Violations & Fines
Placing a prohibited item curbside for pickup is unlawful and punishable under Code of Ordinances Sec. 1.1.3, in addition to any applicable federal or state penalties for hazardous-waste violations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I put a car battery in my Roswell recycling bin?
What happens if I set out a banned item for pickup?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Roswell
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