Honolulu County, HI Trash & Recycling: Pickup Rules & Schedules (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- ROH § 42-1.4(a)(3)
- Durable can capacity
- 10-35 gallons
- Max filled weight
- 75 lbs (durable)
- Nondurable container cap
- 50 lbs filled
Summary
Everyday household refuse for Honolulu pickup must go in a city-provided cart, or in manual-collection areas a durable 10-35 gallon lidded can under 75 pounds full, per ROH § 42-1.4(a)(3).
All other refuse except that mentioned in subdivisions (1) and (2) must be placed in city-provided refuse carts as designated by the director, or in areas provided with manual collection, in durable or nondurable containers described as follows: (A) Durable containers. The interior surface of the container must be smooth with no projections... The container must have a capacity of at least 10 gallons but not more than 35 gallons. The maximum weight of an empty container is 25 pounds. The maximum weight of a filled container is 75 pounds. Every container holding any garbage must have a tight-fitting lid.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-10: Supplement 10, 12-2025 Ordinance No. 25-40 through Ordinance No. 25-56).
Full Breakdown
ROH § 42-1.4(a)(3) sets the container standard for general refuse: it goes in a city-provided cart where the route is automated, or in manual-collection areas in a durable or nondurable container. Durable containers must have a smooth interior, hold 10 to 35 gallons, weigh no more than 25 pounds empty and 75 pounds full, and carry a tight-fitting lid; nondurable plastic, paper, or cardboard containers are capped at 50 pounds filled and collected with their contents.
Violations & Fines
Refuse not placed in a conforming container under § 42-1.4 may be excluded from pickup under § 42-1.5(2)-(3), and violators face a civil fine of up to $500 per violation under § 42-5.1(a), with each day a separate offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of trash can does Honolulu require?
Can I use plastic bags instead of a can?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Honolulu County
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