Garbage Can Rates
All residents within the City of Seattle are required by the Seattle Municipal Code to have garbage containers and pay for garbage service. The more you recycle and the more food waste you put in your food/yard waste cart, the smaller your garbage can you will need, and the lower the rate.
Garbage is billed every other month in advance.
View the Solid Waste Rate Increases FAQ.
Monthly Residential Garbage Can Rates
Effective January 1, 2011
| Service Level (weekly) | Curb or Alley (per month) | Backyard (per month) |
|---|---|---|
| micro-can (12 gallon) | $16.55 | not available |
| mini-can (20 gallon) | $20.30 | not available |
| one can (32 gallon) | $26.40 | $36.95 |
| two 32 gallon cans or one 64-gallon cart | $52.80 | $73.90 |
| three 32-gallon cans or one 96-gallon cart | $79.20 | $110.85 |
| additional (per can) | $26.40 | $36.95 |
| extra garbage (per bundle) | $8.10 | $8.10 |
Effective January 1, 2012
| Service Level (weekly) | Curb or Alley (per month) | Backyard (per month) |
|---|---|---|
| micro-can (12 gallon) | $17.55 | not available |
| mini-can (20 gallon) | $21.55 | not available |
| one can (32 gallon) | $28.05 | $39.25 |
| two 32 gallon cans or one 64-gallon cart | $56.10 | $78.50 |
| three 32-gallon cans or one 96-gallon cart | $84.15 | $117.75 |
| additional (per can) | $28.05 | $39.25 |
| extra garbage (per bundle) | $8.60 | $8.60 |
More Rates and Information
Extra Garbage
Customers are charged for each extra bag, bundle or 32-gallon can (beyond your monthly service level). The maximum weight for extra garbage is 60 pounds per unit.
Vacancy Rate and Construction/Unlivable Allowance
The mandatory garbage charge for all occupied and unoccupied dwelling units applies whether the services are used or not.
The mandatory charge can be waived or reduced, however, if buildings are unlivable or vacant for at least 60 days.
Vacancy rate of $6.85 per month ($13.70 per bill) may be granted for a single family residence that will not be occupied or used as a residence for at least 60 consecutive days. Garbage and recycling must not be set out for collection during this time.
Construction/Unlivable Allowance (no charge) applies to buildings that are deemed "unlivable" by the Solid Waste Inspector.
The Construction/Unlivable Allowance may apply to:
- Single family residences that are unlivable for at least 60 consecutive days
- New single family constructions (until occupied)
- Individual units in multi-family buildings that are unlivable for 60 consecutive days or that have been permanently converted to storage units.
To Request a Special Rate
Call Customer Service at 206-684-3000 to request a special rate or waiver. Requests can be made by the person responsible for paying the Combined Utility Bill, such as:
- Owners
- Agents/Managers
- Executors of Estates
Related Links
Recycle at Your House
Food & Yard Waste at Your House
Reduce, Reuse & Exchange