Texas City, TX Trash & Recycling: Pickup Rules & Schedules (2026)

Section 53.11 of the Texas City Code of Ordinances lists what the city will not collect, and the list runs from (A) to (M). It covers hazardous waste, toxic waste, infectious waste and medical waste; tires; automobiles and boats, whole or in parts; dead animals; dangerous or overweight containers; hot coals or ashes; stable matter; dirt, bricks, concrete or rocks; loose, uncontainerized garbage, trash or yard waste; and pointed or sharp objects likely to cause injury when handled. Rimless tires are the one carve-out: they can be taken to the city's recycling center at no charge.

The rest of Chapter 53 explains how to stay off that list. Garbage and trash must be drained of liquid substances and sacked or wrapped in paper before the parcel goes in a container (§ 53.07). Pointed or sharp objects such as broken glass, jagged metal, razors and wire must be secured, taped or tied before bagging or bundling (§ 53.08(B)). Rubbish goes in authorized containers not over 50 pounds, or in bundles not over four feet long or two feet in diameter and 50 pounds, and the city will not collect rubbish that is not contained or bundled that way. Yard waste is collected only if prepared as the section describes. Construction debris from major building or remodeling work is not garbage, brush or trash and the contractor, owner or occupant removes it at his or her own expense.

Commercial customers who generate hazardous, toxic or special wastes must follow federal and state rules, and § 53.23 says that disposal sits outside the city's exclusive franchise agreement. The City Commission adopted these rules for residents inside the city limits.