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Brownsville, TX Trash & Recycling: Recycling Requirements (2026)

Light Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified July 2026

Key Facts

Status
Active since January 1, 2026
Operator
Redfish Recycling
Cart
Red, 96 gallons, one free
Monthly cost
$0.86
Frequency
Every other week, single-stream

Summary

Brownsville's citywide curbside recycling started January 1, 2026 and is running. Redfish Recycling empties a red 96-gallon cart every other week for $0.86 a month. Participation is voluntary.

Place the cart with wheels facing the house and at least three feet away from any permanent or solid structures or objects, such as, mailboxes, walls, vehicles, trees, or other carts.

Source: Brownsville Code of Ordinances & Unified Development CodeView official code

Full Breakdown

Red carts rolled out beginning November 15, 2025 and collection went live January 1, 2026, confirmed active by the city on January 6. Every home inside the city limits with a 96-gallon trash cart qualifies, including duplexes and three- and four-unit residences. Each household gets one cart free and can request an additional cart at no charge. The program is single-stream: paper, cardboard, newspapers, magazines, junk mail, cartons, pizza boxes, plastics #1 and #2, and aluminum and steel cans all go in loose, with no sorting. Residents who want the cart removed can request that after 60 days, though the monthly fee continues.

Violations & Fines

Glass, plastic bags and film, Styrofoam, greasy paper, tanglers such as hoses and wires, electronics, batteries, hazardous waste, clothing, aluminum foil, furniture, and yard waste contaminate the load and are rejected.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is curbside recycling actually operating in Brownsville?
Yes. The city confirmed the program active on January 6, 2026, with routes serving neighborhoods citywide. Carts were distributed starting November 15, 2025.
Can I put glass in the red cart?
No. Glass is excluded, along with plastic bags, Styrofoam, batteries, electronics, and yard waste. Plastic bags jam the sorting equipment and batteries create fire risk.
Do I have to participate?
No. Participation is voluntary. After 60 days you can request cart removal by calling Redfish at (956) 299-8025, but the monthly fee still applies.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Brownsville

All Brownsville rules

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