Sanitation Services

Each household within the city limits is provided one 96-gallon container that is emptied each week by automated garbage trucks. Each cart belongs to the City of McMinnville and has been embossed with a serial number which is assigned to the street address. The cart remains with the address in the event resident moves. If needed, an additional cart may be obtained for a fee from the Public Works Department by calling 931.473.2553. The Sanitation Department will only pick up the 96 gallon roll-out cart that is assigned to your particular residence by the Public Works Department. No other containers or carts will be emptied.

The city has two automated trucks that operate Monday through Friday to collect solid waste. Trash should be bagged and in the container with the lid closed. If the household requires an additional container, it is provided at the cost of $50.00 non-refundable and a monthly increase of $8.93 to your bill. 

What is Automated Garbage Collection?     

Automated collection is a technologically advanced system of refuse collection. The system is called “automated” because a special truck, equipped with a mechanical or robotic arm, automatically lifts and empties special refuse containers without the operator leaving his seat in the truck. This system is designed to improve efficiency, make the task of putting out the trash easier and cleaner for residents, improve the appearance of the city, and greatly reduce the potential for injuries to city employees. This system is safer, more efficient, and requires much less labor to collect solid waste.

auto loader garbage


The cart is to be placed near street edge by 7:00 AM on the morning of collection, and must be removed from the street before 7:00 PM on collection day. Carts are not to be left at the street all week.






Things to keep in mind when filling or putting your cart out for garbage pickup:

  • Please place cart at least 4 feet from any tree, pole, mailbox, fire hydrant, etc., and at least 10 feet away from any cars parked in the street.
  • If you lean anything against the container, it cannot be lifted for emptying.
  • Remember to place the arrow on the lid of the container toward the street, and the handle toward the house.
  • Do not drag the cart when moving it. Tilt and roll it with the lid closed.
  • Keep the lid closed at all times.
  • Store the cart in the backyard, garage, or other convenient location.
  • Do not store it near a fireplace, furnace, grill, or other heat source. Clean the cart periodically with water.
  • Do not place hot ashes, solvents, paints, or other flammable liquids in the cart.
  • Do not use the cart to hold hazardous materials such as: deceased animals, chemicals, oils, liquids, medical waste, exposed needles, used bandages, etc.
  • Do not place dirt, rocks, limbs, or building materials in the cart.
  • Do not overfill the cart to the extent the lid will not fully close. If the lid is not fully closed, trash will spill onto the road so the container will not be emptied.
  • Do not allow children to play in or near the cart.

For questions pertaining to residential solid waste collection phone 931.473.2553.

These are examples of garbage that will not be emptied. Please be sure that your cart closes and that the garbage is in a bag.

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SERVICES FOR NEW RESIDENTS

  • New residents will receive the city’s sanitation services when water service is connected to the residence. To find out the scheduled pick-up day in your area call 931.473.2553.

COMMERCIAL COLLECTION SERVICES

  • The City of McMinnville provides waste collection services to local businesses and industries for a monthly fee. For more information call 931.473.2553.

SPECIAL PICK-UPS

  • Household material that is too bulky for your 96-gallon roll-out cart such as appliances or furniture will be collected separately by a special truck. Call 931.473.2553 to schedule a special pick-up.

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS

  • Highly flammable, combustible, explosive or hazardous materials shall not be placed in containers for regular collection. Call 931.473.2553 for suggestions about disposal.