Solid Waste transition to refuse roll carts

Share Solid Waste transition to refuse roll carts on Facebook Share Solid Waste transition to refuse roll carts on Twitter Share Solid Waste transition to refuse roll carts on Linkedin Email Solid Waste transition to refuse roll carts link

Consultation has concluded


All refuse to be collected must be placed in a City-provided roll cart. All refuse must fit inside the cart with the lid closed. The cart will not be emptied if the cart is overflowing or has trash placed on top of the lid. Bags left on the curb will not be picked up.

Only regular household trash and yard waste can be put into the carts. Although it is not required, the City recommends that customers place their trash in a bag or container to prevent litter from blowing around.

Need to request a different size?

Click image for information


The Utility’s goal is to provide the best possible service to our customers. A proven method of solid waste collection, automated collection allows the City of Columbia Solid Waste Utility to increase the efficiency of collection while improving safety for our workers.

Also, the use of refuse carts encourages waste reduction through recycling and backyard composting.

For more information, please visit our FAQ page on the City's website or linked on this page .

Between collection days, customers must store their roll carts inside or adjacent to the residential structure or an accessory structure (i.e., detached garage or storage shed).

Carts shall be placed at the curb no earlier than 4 p.m. the day before the customer’s scheduled collection day and no later than 6:30 a.m. on the collection day. Carts must be removed from the curb no later than 10 p.m. on the customer’s collection day.

For more information, please visit our FAQ page on the City's website or linked on this page .

There is no charge for the cart itself. However, customers’ monthly rates are determined based on the size of the cart. For example, a customer who uses a 65-gallon cart will be charged $17.37, meaning there will be no change to the bill. Charges for smaller or larger carts are proportionate to the size of the cart.

  • 35 gallon - $12.87 per month
  • 65 gallon - $17.37 per month (the current fee)
  • 95 gallon - $22.50 per month

Customers may request to exchange their refuse cart one time at no charge within the first 120 days of initially receiving the cart. After the initial 120-day period, customers will be charged a $25 exchange fee per cart.

Need to request a different size?

Additional carts and one-time extra collections will be available for additional fees.

For more information, please visit our FAQ page on the City's website or linked on this page.

Please note

City of Columbia Utilities is getting many requests from the public through City Council members regarding the transition to automated collections. Particularly as it relates to refuse collections staff performing manual collection at the curb. Unfortunately, things do not always go as planned. When it was decided to begin the transition to automated collection, it was with the knowledge that the three smaller automated collection trucks would not be delivered. The 10 large automated collection trucks would be sufficient to begin the transition. 

There are a total of nine large truck collection routes and two small truck collection routes each day. Without the small trucks available, it was realized that rear-loading trucks that are equipped with cart tipping mechanisms would have to be used for these routes. While the rear-loading trucks are equipped with cart tipping mechanisms that are capable of tipping the carts, many of the collection staff choose to pull the bags out of the roll cart and manually place the bags in the truck. Some of the collection staff choose the manual collection method because that is more familiar to them.

The residential curbside refuse collection operation requires the use of two rear-loading trucks that are equipped with cart tipping mechanisms. These two trucks are utilized to collect the large bulky items that cannot be collected with the automated side-load trucks. These two rear-loading trucks are also being used with the initial implementation to augment the automated collection operation by collecting refuse carts that were not properly placed the day prior. Many customers are placing bags next to the carts, and many requests for skipped collection service are being received. These staff are also addressing these requests for skipped collection. 

Additionally, there have been multiple occasions when some of the automated trucks have had mechanical issues and were not available. When this happens, it requires the use of additional rear-loading trucks. Again, these trucks have the ability to mechanically tip the carts. Some collection staff choose to pull the bags out of the roll cart and manually place the bags in the truck. 

Solid Waste has also received more than 1,400 customer requests to switch to a larger size roll cart. It will take some time to switch out these carts, and there will continue to be issues until the changes are complete.

It should also be noted that the automated residential curbside refuse collection operation is brand new. It will take several weeks for both the collection staff and customers to become familiar with this new operation. We ask for customer’s patience and understanding and we work through the challenges for both staff and customers.

The Solid Waste Utility received its first side-loader truck for automated residential collection on Wednesday, Nov. 15.


All refuse to be collected must be placed in a City-provided roll cart. All refuse must fit inside the cart with the lid closed. The cart will not be emptied if the cart is overflowing or has trash placed on top of the lid. Bags left on the curb will not be picked up.

Only regular household trash and yard waste can be put into the carts. Although it is not required, the City recommends that customers place their trash in a bag or container to prevent litter from blowing around.

Need to request a different size?

Click image for information


The Utility’s goal is to provide the best possible service to our customers. A proven method of solid waste collection, automated collection allows the City of Columbia Solid Waste Utility to increase the efficiency of collection while improving safety for our workers.

Also, the use of refuse carts encourages waste reduction through recycling and backyard composting.

For more information, please visit our FAQ page on the City's website or linked on this page .

Between collection days, customers must store their roll carts inside or adjacent to the residential structure or an accessory structure (i.e., detached garage or storage shed).

Carts shall be placed at the curb no earlier than 4 p.m. the day before the customer’s scheduled collection day and no later than 6:30 a.m. on the collection day. Carts must be removed from the curb no later than 10 p.m. on the customer’s collection day.

For more information, please visit our FAQ page on the City's website or linked on this page .

There is no charge for the cart itself. However, customers’ monthly rates are determined based on the size of the cart. For example, a customer who uses a 65-gallon cart will be charged $17.37, meaning there will be no change to the bill. Charges for smaller or larger carts are proportionate to the size of the cart.

  • 35 gallon - $12.87 per month
  • 65 gallon - $17.37 per month (the current fee)
  • 95 gallon - $22.50 per month

Customers may request to exchange their refuse cart one time at no charge within the first 120 days of initially receiving the cart. After the initial 120-day period, customers will be charged a $25 exchange fee per cart.

Need to request a different size?

Additional carts and one-time extra collections will be available for additional fees.

For more information, please visit our FAQ page on the City's website or linked on this page.

Please note

City of Columbia Utilities is getting many requests from the public through City Council members regarding the transition to automated collections. Particularly as it relates to refuse collections staff performing manual collection at the curb. Unfortunately, things do not always go as planned. When it was decided to begin the transition to automated collection, it was with the knowledge that the three smaller automated collection trucks would not be delivered. The 10 large automated collection trucks would be sufficient to begin the transition. 

There are a total of nine large truck collection routes and two small truck collection routes each day. Without the small trucks available, it was realized that rear-loading trucks that are equipped with cart tipping mechanisms would have to be used for these routes. While the rear-loading trucks are equipped with cart tipping mechanisms that are capable of tipping the carts, many of the collection staff choose to pull the bags out of the roll cart and manually place the bags in the truck. Some of the collection staff choose the manual collection method because that is more familiar to them.

The residential curbside refuse collection operation requires the use of two rear-loading trucks that are equipped with cart tipping mechanisms. These two trucks are utilized to collect the large bulky items that cannot be collected with the automated side-load trucks. These two rear-loading trucks are also being used with the initial implementation to augment the automated collection operation by collecting refuse carts that were not properly placed the day prior. Many customers are placing bags next to the carts, and many requests for skipped collection service are being received. These staff are also addressing these requests for skipped collection. 

Additionally, there have been multiple occasions when some of the automated trucks have had mechanical issues and were not available. When this happens, it requires the use of additional rear-loading trucks. Again, these trucks have the ability to mechanically tip the carts. Some collection staff choose to pull the bags out of the roll cart and manually place the bags in the truck. 

Solid Waste has also received more than 1,400 customer requests to switch to a larger size roll cart. It will take some time to switch out these carts, and there will continue to be issues until the changes are complete.

It should also be noted that the automated residential curbside refuse collection operation is brand new. It will take several weeks for both the collection staff and customers to become familiar with this new operation. We ask for customer’s patience and understanding and we work through the challenges for both staff and customers.

The Solid Waste Utility received its first side-loader truck for automated residential collection on Wednesday, Nov. 15.

Consultation has concluded
  • Share So why is it before we could set out 10 ,15, 20 bags of trash and it be the base price ..but now if it's not in the trash can or close you won't take it, and then want to charge more for a bigger trash can..doesn't make since to me on Facebook Share So why is it before we could set out 10 ,15, 20 bags of trash and it be the base price ..but now if it's not in the trash can or close you won't take it, and then want to charge more for a bigger trash can..doesn't make since to me on Twitter Share So why is it before we could set out 10 ,15, 20 bags of trash and it be the base price ..but now if it's not in the trash can or close you won't take it, and then want to charge more for a bigger trash can..doesn't make since to me on Linkedin Email So why is it before we could set out 10 ,15, 20 bags of trash and it be the base price ..but now if it's not in the trash can or close you won't take it, and then want to charge more for a bigger trash can..doesn't make since to me link

    So why is it before we could set out 10 ,15, 20 bags of trash and it be the base price ..but now if it's not in the trash can or close you won't take it, and then want to charge more for a bigger trash can..doesn't make since to me

    Kdog468 asked about 1 month ago

    Fairness. Just as customers who consume more water and electricity pay a higher price, customers who produce more waste will pay more for using the service. 

    Waste reduction. Customers who want to lower their waste collection fees have the choice to do so by reducing the amount of waste they send to the landfill. Reduce, reuse, recycle and compost.

  • Share I live on West Broadway and concerned about putting the cart in the roadway. The street is narrow and cars move fast. On day 1 have noticed cars having to swerve a bit. Is it ok to put the cart just up off the street. Thanks. on Facebook Share I live on West Broadway and concerned about putting the cart in the roadway. The street is narrow and cars move fast. On day 1 have noticed cars having to swerve a bit. Is it ok to put the cart just up off the street. Thanks. on Twitter Share I live on West Broadway and concerned about putting the cart in the roadway. The street is narrow and cars move fast. On day 1 have noticed cars having to swerve a bit. Is it ok to put the cart just up off the street. Thanks. on Linkedin Email I live on West Broadway and concerned about putting the cart in the roadway. The street is narrow and cars move fast. On day 1 have noticed cars having to swerve a bit. Is it ok to put the cart just up off the street. Thanks. link

    I live on West Broadway and concerned about putting the cart in the roadway. The street is narrow and cars move fast. On day 1 have noticed cars having to swerve a bit. Is it ok to put the cart just up off the street. Thanks.

    BOCKLAGEt asked about 2 months ago

    As long as the ground is level and the roll cart is not blocking a sidewalk and is placed near the street, that will be OK.

  • Share I am an 80 year old single woman who has an exceptionally steep driveway and I can forsee it being difficult to roll that cart down the steep incline by myself, especially in bad weather. This is going to be a real problem for me. Do you have any solution for me? on Facebook Share I am an 80 year old single woman who has an exceptionally steep driveway and I can forsee it being difficult to roll that cart down the steep incline by myself, especially in bad weather. This is going to be a real problem for me. Do you have any solution for me? on Twitter Share I am an 80 year old single woman who has an exceptionally steep driveway and I can forsee it being difficult to roll that cart down the steep incline by myself, especially in bad weather. This is going to be a real problem for me. Do you have any solution for me? on Linkedin Email I am an 80 year old single woman who has an exceptionally steep driveway and I can forsee it being difficult to roll that cart down the steep incline by myself, especially in bad weather. This is going to be a real problem for me. Do you have any solution for me? link

    I am an 80 year old single woman who has an exceptionally steep driveway and I can forsee it being difficult to roll that cart down the steep incline by myself, especially in bad weather. This is going to be a real problem for me. Do you have any solution for me?

    Gloria Logan asked 3 months ago

    Customers who are physically unable to transport their refuse cart to the curb may receive house collection at the same service rate as curbside collection.   

    Those customers will need a note from their physician, on official letterhead, stating that the person would benefit from assisted service due to age, illness and/or ability status. The note must also contain the resident’s name, address and the convenient location, outside the residence, where they would prefer to place their trash for collection. The physician’s office can fax the letter to 573.449.9641, Attention: Damon Crum. The letter can also be emailed to Waste-Mgmt@CoMo.gov or mailed to: Solid Waste Division P.O. Box 6015, Columbia, MO 65205.

  • Share I missed the deadline. Sorry. I wanted to select the smallest rollcart. Can I do that? I'd rather not get the mid sized one and then have to exchange it. on Facebook Share I missed the deadline. Sorry. I wanted to select the smallest rollcart. Can I do that? I'd rather not get the mid sized one and then have to exchange it. on Twitter Share I missed the deadline. Sorry. I wanted to select the smallest rollcart. Can I do that? I'd rather not get the mid sized one and then have to exchange it. on Linkedin Email I missed the deadline. Sorry. I wanted to select the smallest rollcart. Can I do that? I'd rather not get the mid sized one and then have to exchange it. link

    I missed the deadline. Sorry. I wanted to select the smallest rollcart. Can I do that? I'd rather not get the mid sized one and then have to exchange it.

    Catherine.porter1 asked 6 months ago

    Customers who need to select a new cart size should call the City Contact Center at 573.874.CITY (2489). A representative will be able to help make sure your selection is entered into the system.

  • Share What is the plan for renters? If I move to a new address, am I stuck using whichever roll cart the previous tenants requested, or will I get the chance to select my own preferred size when I set up my utilities? on Facebook Share What is the plan for renters? If I move to a new address, am I stuck using whichever roll cart the previous tenants requested, or will I get the chance to select my own preferred size when I set up my utilities? on Twitter Share What is the plan for renters? If I move to a new address, am I stuck using whichever roll cart the previous tenants requested, or will I get the chance to select my own preferred size when I set up my utilities? on Linkedin Email What is the plan for renters? If I move to a new address, am I stuck using whichever roll cart the previous tenants requested, or will I get the chance to select my own preferred size when I set up my utilities? link

    What is the plan for renters? If I move to a new address, am I stuck using whichever roll cart the previous tenants requested, or will I get the chance to select my own preferred size when I set up my utilities?

    dustinbelt32 asked 6 months ago

    You will select you preferred size when you set up your utilities.

  • Share Where do you put the roll carts for collection? Can they be in the street next to the curb? There are no sidewalks in my neighborhood and I only have a one-car garage and driveway. Thanks! on Facebook Share Where do you put the roll carts for collection? Can they be in the street next to the curb? There are no sidewalks in my neighborhood and I only have a one-car garage and driveway. Thanks! on Twitter Share Where do you put the roll carts for collection? Can they be in the street next to the curb? There are no sidewalks in my neighborhood and I only have a one-car garage and driveway. Thanks! on Linkedin Email Where do you put the roll carts for collection? Can they be in the street next to the curb? There are no sidewalks in my neighborhood and I only have a one-car garage and driveway. Thanks! link

    Where do you put the roll carts for collection? Can they be in the street next to the curb? There are no sidewalks in my neighborhood and I only have a one-car garage and driveway. Thanks!

    psteinhaus asked 6 months ago

    When the carts are delivered, crews will place the cart in the optimal location for each address.

  • Share Is the cost of the roll carts in addition to what we are already paying for trash collection? on Facebook Share Is the cost of the roll carts in addition to what we are already paying for trash collection? on Twitter Share Is the cost of the roll carts in addition to what we are already paying for trash collection? on Linkedin Email Is the cost of the roll carts in addition to what we are already paying for trash collection? link

    Is the cost of the roll carts in addition to what we are already paying for trash collection?

    Joe asked 7 months ago

    There is no charge for the roll cart itself. The monthly fee is the collection fee and is based on the size of the roll cart.  

  • Share I have had a couple of instances of theft and vandalism at my apartment, which is in the back of a building. People pass through from an adjoining street. I’m am concerned about the cart being possibly stolen. Is it permissible to put mailbox letters on the carts to identify them, and what happens in the case of theft of roll carts? Thanks! on Facebook Share I have had a couple of instances of theft and vandalism at my apartment, which is in the back of a building. People pass through from an adjoining street. I’m am concerned about the cart being possibly stolen. Is it permissible to put mailbox letters on the carts to identify them, and what happens in the case of theft of roll carts? Thanks! on Twitter Share I have had a couple of instances of theft and vandalism at my apartment, which is in the back of a building. People pass through from an adjoining street. I’m am concerned about the cart being possibly stolen. Is it permissible to put mailbox letters on the carts to identify them, and what happens in the case of theft of roll carts? Thanks! on Linkedin Email I have had a couple of instances of theft and vandalism at my apartment, which is in the back of a building. People pass through from an adjoining street. I’m am concerned about the cart being possibly stolen. Is it permissible to put mailbox letters on the carts to identify them, and what happens in the case of theft of roll carts? Thanks! link

    I have had a couple of instances of theft and vandalism at my apartment, which is in the back of a building. People pass through from an adjoining street. I’m am concerned about the cart being possibly stolen. Is it permissible to put mailbox letters on the carts to identify them, and what happens in the case of theft of roll carts? Thanks!

    Elainek37 asked 7 months ago

    The roll cart is City property; therefore the appearance of the roll cart should not be altered. 

    Customers should notify the City at 573.874.CITY (2489) if their cart is missing or stolen. The refuse carts will have barcodes assigned to a specific address. A missing or stolen cart will be brought back to its assigned location if it can be found.

  • Share Your postcard listed 3 cart sizes with 3 different cart charges per month. Your website says "no change in charge." I selected a 35 gal. cart with $12.87 monthly charge. Will my monthly charge actually go down, stay the same, or what? on Facebook Share Your postcard listed 3 cart sizes with 3 different cart charges per month. Your website says "no change in charge." I selected a 35 gal. cart with $12.87 monthly charge. Will my monthly charge actually go down, stay the same, or what? on Twitter Share Your postcard listed 3 cart sizes with 3 different cart charges per month. Your website says "no change in charge." I selected a 35 gal. cart with $12.87 monthly charge. Will my monthly charge actually go down, stay the same, or what? on Linkedin Email Your postcard listed 3 cart sizes with 3 different cart charges per month. Your website says "no change in charge." I selected a 35 gal. cart with $12.87 monthly charge. Will my monthly charge actually go down, stay the same, or what? link

    Your postcard listed 3 cart sizes with 3 different cart charges per month. Your website says "no change in charge." I selected a 35 gal. cart with $12.87 monthly charge. Will my monthly charge actually go down, stay the same, or what?

    tonyyonkman asked 7 months ago

    You currently pay a monthly $17.37 collection fee. With the 35-gallon roll cart, your collection fee will be $12.87 per month. There is no charge for the cart. Thus, your monthly charge will go down.

  • Share Is the cost per month designated for the roll carts in addition to what we are already paying for trash/month? If so, I would like to mention we did just increase our electric costs significantly so I would be curious how many more increases are coming? Also, did any waste employees lose their jobs to rolling cart robotics? Thank you on Facebook Share Is the cost per month designated for the roll carts in addition to what we are already paying for trash/month? If so, I would like to mention we did just increase our electric costs significantly so I would be curious how many more increases are coming? Also, did any waste employees lose their jobs to rolling cart robotics? Thank you on Twitter Share Is the cost per month designated for the roll carts in addition to what we are already paying for trash/month? If so, I would like to mention we did just increase our electric costs significantly so I would be curious how many more increases are coming? Also, did any waste employees lose their jobs to rolling cart robotics? Thank you on Linkedin Email Is the cost per month designated for the roll carts in addition to what we are already paying for trash/month? If so, I would like to mention we did just increase our electric costs significantly so I would be curious how many more increases are coming? Also, did any waste employees lose their jobs to rolling cart robotics? Thank you link

    Is the cost per month designated for the roll carts in addition to what we are already paying for trash/month? If so, I would like to mention we did just increase our electric costs significantly so I would be curious how many more increases are coming? Also, did any waste employees lose their jobs to rolling cart robotics? Thank you

    papacatastrophe asked 7 months ago

    No. There is no charge for the roll cart. If you get the 35-gallon cart, your bill will go down. If you get the 65-gallon cart, your bill will stay the same. If you get one or more 95-gallon carts, your bill will increase.

    No one has lost a job. On the contrary, we are actively trying to hire more collectors.