Ann Arbor, MI Trash & Recycling: Valet Trash Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Exempt activity
- valet trash within one property
- Licensing needed
- only for haulers crossing public streets
- Governing chapter
- City Code Chapter 26
- Definition section
- § 2:1(26)
Summary
Ann Arbor's solid waste code exempts valet trash services moving waste within a single property or development to a shared container from the city's hauler licensing requirement.
Solid waste hauler means any person or entity who engages in the business of collection, transportation, or disposal of solid waste from any customer within the city and across public streets or rights-of-way. It does not include valet solid waste removal and transport from customers located within a single property or development to a container located within that same property or development. It also does not include the occasional removal and transport of solid waste by a residential customer to a solid waste facility as permitted in section 2:5. (Ord. No. 25-35, § 1, 1-5-26)
2:2. - City collection of solid waste.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 26 Update 4).
Full Breakdown
Ann Arbor's Chapter 26 defines 'solid waste hauler' as anyone who collects, transports, or disposes of solid waste from customers within the city and across public streets or rights-of-way (§ 2:1(26)). The definition explicitly carves out valet solid waste removal, moving waste from units within a single property or development to a shared container on that same property, so in-house valet trash operators don't need the city contract or exclusive franchise agreement that § 2:2(1)b requires of solid waste haulers operating across public rights-of-way.
Violations & Fines
Acting as an unlicensed solid waste hauler across public streets without a city contract or franchise is a civil infraction under § 2:12, $200 first offense, up to $1,000 for repeats.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a valet trash company need a city license in Ann Arbor?
Who does need a hauler contract or franchise?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Ann Arbor
Compare Ann Arbor to another location·View the Michigan trash & recycling overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.