How long can trash stay on the curb?
Trash bags may only be put out at the curb 12 hours before they are picked up, but trash cans and recycling bins may be put out at the curb 24 hours before pickup. However, many homeowners associations have stricter rules about when trash can be put out at the curb. Trash companies do not normally pick up large, bulky items, such as mattresses, furniture or fallen trees. You can ask your trash company to pick up these kinds of items for an extra fee. It is a homeowner’s responsibility to make sure these items are picked up. If trash is left at the curb for more than 10 days, call the Health Department at 703-246-2300, TTY 711. The county will investigate the complaint, collect the trash if the property owner does not comply with directives to remove it themselves, and charge the property owner for picking it up under the county’s Clean Street’s Initiative Program. The minimum fee for the program is $250, and can rise depending upon the amount of trash.
