As an expert in waste management and sustainability, I have seen firsthand the impact that proper trash and recycling collection regulations can have on a community. In Georgetown, TX, these regulations are crucial for maintaining a clean and sustainable environment for its residents and businesses.
Overview of Georgetown, TX
Georgetown is a vibrant city located in Williamson County, Texas. With a population of over 79,000, it is known for its historic downtown area, beautiful parks, and strong sense of community. As the city continues to grow, it is essential to have regulations in place for trash and recycling collection to ensure its cleanliness and sustainability.The City's Solid Waste Services
The City of Georgetown has a contract with Texas Disposal Systems (TDS) to provide solid waste services to its residents and businesses.This includes the collection of trash, recycling, and yard waste within the city limits. According to the City's website, these services are funded through a monthly fee on utility bills. This fee covers the cost of collection, disposal, and recycling services. The City also offers additional services such as bulk item pickup and household hazardous waste disposal.
Trash Collection Regulations
The City of Georgetown has specific regulations in place for trash collection to ensure the proper disposal of waste. These regulations include:- Proper Containerization: All trash must be placed in a container provided by TDS.
This can be either a 96-gallon cart or a 30-gallon bag. The container must be placed at the curb by 7:00 am on the designated collection day.
- No Loose Trash: Loose trash, such as bags or boxes, will not be collected. All trash must be contained in the provided container.
- No Hazardous Waste: Hazardous waste, such as batteries, chemicals, or electronics, cannot be disposed of through regular trash collection. The City offers a household hazardous waste program for proper disposal of these items.
- No Construction Debris: Construction debris, such as lumber, drywall, or concrete, is not accepted through regular trash collection.
Residents and businesses must arrange for a special pickup with TDS for these items.
Recycling Collection Regulations
The City of Georgetown is committed to promoting recycling and has regulations in place to ensure the proper disposal of recyclable materials. These regulations include:- Proper Containerization: All recyclables must be placed in the blue recycling cart provided by TDS. The cart must be placed at the curb by 7:00 am on the designated collection day.
- No Contamination: Contaminated recyclables, such as food waste or non-recyclable materials, can cause the entire load to be rejected. It is important to only place accepted recyclables in the blue cart.
- No Plastic Bags: Plastic bags cannot be recycled through curbside collection.
Residents and businesses can recycle plastic bags at designated drop-off locations throughout the city.
- No Shredded Paper: Shredded paper cannot be recycled through curbside collection. Residents and businesses can recycle shredded paper at designated drop-off locations or through the City's annual shred day event.
Yard Waste Collection Regulations
The City of Georgetown offers yard waste collection for its residents. This includes grass clippings, leaves, and small branches. The regulations for yard waste collection are as follows:- Proper Containerization: Yard waste must be placed in a container provided by TDS.
The container must be placed at the curb by 7:00 am on the designated collection day.
- No Loose Yard Waste: Loose yard waste, such as piles of leaves or branches, will not be collected. All yard waste must be contained in the provided container.
- No Dirt or Rocks: Dirt and rocks cannot be disposed of through yard waste collection. These items can cause damage to the collection equipment and should be disposed of through other means.
Enforcement of Regulations
The City of Georgetown takes the enforcement of trash and recycling regulations seriously. Violations can result in fines and penalties.The City's Code Enforcement Division is responsible for enforcing these regulations and responding to complaints from residents and businesses. If you have any questions or concerns about trash and recycling collection in Georgetown, you can contact the City's Solid Waste Services Department at (512) 930-3640 or visit their website for more information.
