County officials remind public about rules for curbside rubbish collection

Kaua‘i County Public Works Solid Waste Division is reminding Garden Isle residents about the rules for curbside rubbish collection.

Following these guidelines helps collection drivers pick up trash safely and efficiently, reduces service delays and supports a cleaner community islandwide.

Collection uses automated trucks, and because of union contract requirements, drivers cannot exit their vehicles while on route. As a result, only refuse properly bagged and contained inside the cart can be collected.

Loose or spilled rubbish outside the cart cannot be picked up, making it especially important to follow all collection rules.

Complete list of curbside trash collection rules

• BAG AND PREPARE RUBBISH PROPERLY: All rubbish must be bagged before being placed in carts. Only dry trash is allowed. Liquids must be drained or absorbed prior to disposal, as free liquid creates leachate, a smelly byproduct that gums up equipment, causes corrosion and can contaminate materials it contacts.
• SECURE AND CONTAIN TRASH: Place refuse inside your assigned cart. Only refuse in the cart will be collected, and the lid must be fully closed. Any loose rubbish or refuse placed outside the cart cannot be collected.
• PUT REFUSE OUT AT THE CURB ON TIME: Carts must be placed curbside the night before your scheduled pickup day or by 4:30 a.m. at the latest. Collection times could vary depending on route changes and operational factors. Carts not put out when the driver passes your street will not be collected.
• PROVIDE ADEQUATE CLEARANCE: Place carts at least 5 feet away from any object, with 16 feet of overhead clearance. When multiple carts are placed together — such as in cul-de-sacs — maintain at least 3 feet of space between them. Any variances must be approved by the county.
• AFTER TRASH COLLECTION: Remove carts from the curb as soon as possible.

Residents must transport their trash to the nearest transfer station or landfill if their cart is tagged for a violation.

Call 808-241-4841 for assistance if your trash was placed at the curb on time and all rules were followed but collection did not occur

Visit the Kaua‘i County Public Works Solid Waste Division website or contact the Solid Waste Division at 808-241-4841 or via email at solidwaste@kauai.gov for additional information or with any questions.