Americans shocked by $100 trash can fee starting this week: Homeowners warned

A new $100 trash can replacement fee is now in effect in Virginia Beach, where homeowners can be charged if a trash or recycling cart is lost or damaged. The change began July 1 and is part of a broader update to waste-related city fees.

The city uses 95-gallon curbside containers for collection. Trash must go in black carts, while recycling goes in blue carts, and residents are being urged to keep carts secure and return them after pickup to avoid extra costs.
 

What changed

The replacement fee for a trash or recycling cart has increased by $25, bringing the charge to $100. The city also raised other waste-related fees, including yard debris trailer rentals.

• One-day yard debris trailer rental: $50
• Weekend trailer rental: $150
• Cart requests and replacement help: Public Works Customer Service.

Residents can pay by credit card, personal check, or money order made payable to the city treasurer.
 

Why cities are cracking down

Local governments are facing higher collection costs, aging equipment, environmental concerns, and pressure to reduce illegal dumping. That has led many cities to make waste rules more formal and to increase penalties for violations.

Virginia Beach is not alone. Other cities and states are also tightening trash and recycling enforcement, including stronger penalties for improper disposal and bin replacement programs.
 

What homeowners should do

To avoid the fee, residents should:

• Use the correct cart color.

• Label carts with their address.

• Bring bins back from the curb after pickup.

• Keep carts from being lost, stolen, or damaged.

The main warning is simple: a missing or damaged cart can now be an expensive problem for homeowners.

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