Update: The City of Philadelphia has extended the Refuse Collection Fee payment due date from December 31, 2020 to June 30, 2021. There will be no interest or penalty if the full $500 payment is made before the new due date. 

It’s that time of year again. The annual Refuse (Trash) Collection bills have been signed, sealed, and will soon be delivered. Keep an eye on your mailbox if you own a commercial, multi-unit residential, or mixed-use property in Philadelphia and use the City’s trash collection service. The City usually requires these types of properties to hire a private trash company. But some smaller properties can use the City’s service for an annual fee.

Increase in Refuse (Trash) Fee

After many years of staying fixed at the same amount, the Refuse Collection Fee, is going up for 2021. Eligible commercial, multi-unit, or mixed-use properties will soon receive a $500 bill. It covers weekly City trash pick-up for the entire year. Single-unit homes and properties that use a private trash service don’t pay this fee.

You can split the bill into two, $250 installments. The first (or full) payment will be due December 31, 2020. The Fee is an affordable option that replaces often much more costly private haulers. Eligible small businesses and property-owners can even pay online.

Reduced and waived fees

Some properties are also entitled to City trash and recycling service at a reduced or waived fee. If you fall into one of the categories below, fill out and return a Refuse Collection Fee exemption form.

  • Owner-occupied property – The property must be 100% occupied by the owner with no tenants (100% discount, $0 due).
  • House of worship – The property must be used for religious purposes only (100% discount, $0 due).
  • Vacant property – The property must be vacant, and the owner must provide a current Vacant Property license from the Department of Licenses & Inspections (100% discount, $0 due).
  • Owner-occupied duplex – The owner must live in one unit and have one other rental unit only. The owner must provide a current rental license from the Department of Licenses & Inspection (50% discount, $150 due).

If you have questions about the Refuse Collection fee, email solidresources@phila.gov, or call (215) 686-5090.

Pay the Refuse Collection fee today: