REFUSE ENTERPRISE FUND
NEW REFUSE / RECYCLING FEE

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. If I don’t want these services, can I choose not to participate (opt out)?

All eligible properties in the City of Suffolk will be provided and billed for residential trash and recycling services. Should you choose not to actively participate, the fee will still apply. 

2. What if I don’t want to recycle, will I still receive the container?

Yes, the City is providing recycling containers to all residences receiving residential trash removal services.  We hope you choose to participate, but you will have the container should you choose to do so at a later time. 

3. Do I have to pay for the refuse container(s)?

No, one refuse container will be provided at no charge to properties within the expansion area; should you require more than one container, additional containers are available for lease.

4. Can I use my old trash container?

Only containers that are compatible with our automated trucks can be used; please contact the Sanitation Department (514-7630) to determine if your existing container, or one that you wish to purchase, is compatible.

5. How many containers can I place curbside for collection?

The City will empty up to three 90-gallon automated trash containers.  Please ensure that you allow 4 to 6 feet between containers and other structures, and that containers are placed well away from any low-hanging limbs or wires.

6. When will I get my containers?

All containers should be delivered by September 1, 2011.

7. How much is the fee and how is it paid?

For the months of July & August, the fee is $13.50/mo. (covers trash pickup only); beginning September 1st (when you receive your containers and recycling begins), the fee is $17.50/mo.; the fee will be on your real estate tax bill (billed twice annually).

8. Will my collection day change?

No, all collection schedules will remain the same.

9. How often will recycling be picked up?

Every other week, the same day as your trash pickup.

10. If my rental property is unoccupied for a substantial period of time, do I still have to pay for services I’m not using?

Yes; the service is available, and the fee assessed, to all properties with a valid occupancy permit, even if vacant.

11. What if there are no houses on my rental property (just vacant land); do I still pay for the service?

If there is no structure on the property, no.

12. Does this include special collections, and if so, are they unlimited (size and quantity)?

The policy for allowing 12 special collections per year of 8 cubic yards (6x6x6) or less remains the same; additional collections, as well as collections of larger piles not exceeding 16 cubic yards, are available by calling 514-7630.

13. If I have more trash than my can will hold, can I put bags beside it?

No; all household trash must fit inside the container with the top closed; bags of extra household trash beside the can will not be removed.  Other items may be placed 6 feet from the container and will be considered a special collection.

14. If I live on a private road, can I have curbside pickup now?

No, the City cannot travel on private roads for refuse collection.

15. What happens if I use my recycling can for extra household trash?

Recycling containers will be monitored for content; if it contains household trash,
it will not be dumped.

16. Will we still have the drop-off sites for recycling?

Yes, the recycling collection sites will remain as needed.

17. Why do I have to pay an extra fee for trash pickup when I already pay for the service in my taxes?

The cost for refuse collection and recycling services is no longer paid from property taxes collected.

18. Who do I contact if I have questions?

Please contact our Refuse Hotline at 514-7670.