Trash
The City of Dubuque uses a pay-as-you throw program in which customers pay according to how much trash they set out.
Subscription Options
Four monthly subscription options are available to best suit the customer's needs.
| Subscription Option | Monthly Fee | Setout Limit | Cart Dimensions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 35 gal. cart also known as Basic Service | $18.11 | 112 lbs. | 38.25" H x 19.75" W x 23.75" D |
| 48 gal. cart | $20.28 | 168 lbs. | 37.5" H x 23.5" W x 28.75" D |
| 64 gal. cart | $24.32 | 224 lbs. | 41.75" H x 24.25" W x 31.5" D |
| 96 gal. cart | $34.16 | 335 lbs. | 43.5" H x 29.75" W x 35.5" D |
Request a New or Replacement Cart
To request a new or replacement trash, recycling, or yard waste/food scrap cart, fill out a collection change form or call Public Works at 563-589-4250.
Single-Use Sticker for Excess Trash
Single-use stickers for excess trash are available in sheets of five ($10) at area grocery, discount, and hardware stores, and at Utility Billing in City Hall at 50 W. 13th Street. The green single-use stickers may be used for extra bags or smaller items, weighing less than 40 lbs. and smaller than 2' by 3' that do not fit in a cart. For further information, call the Public Works Department at 563-589-4250.
Proper Cart Set-Out
Non-compliant containers and set-outs will be tagged by crews and left uncollected.
- Do not overfill the cart.
- Set out by 6 a.m. on collection day.
- Set out no more than 24 hours prior to collection day, and containers should be brought back in within 24 hours after collection.
- Allow 2 ft. of space around the cart(s).
- Do not place within 2 ft. of parked cars, basketball hoops, fire hydrants, light poles, or under trees.
- When snow is present, place cart(s) in a clear, flat area.
- Arrow on the lid of the cart should point toward the street.
Refuse Credit
A customer may be eligible for refuse credit if their property is vacant for a minimum of 2 months. A refuse credit form must be completed and submitted prior to or at the onset of the vacancy and must be completed annually.
Discounted City Utilities Program
The City offers income-qualified residential customers a reduction in monthly fees for all four City utilities (water, sanitary sewer, refuse collection, and storm water) of up to 50% of the base rate. Learn more and apply through Utility Billing.
Exemption Form
If there is a physical or medical reason, or an issue with the terrain of a customer's property, an exemption to using the City-issued carts will be considered. Download an exemption form.