This blog post was updated on April 30, 2021.

Philadelphia property owners who haven’t paid their Annual Commercial Trash Fee (also known as Refuse Collection Fee) have until June 30, 2021 to pay this bill. As part of a new set of COVID-19 relief measures by the City, there will be no interest or penalty if the full $500 payment is made before June 30, 2021.

Previously, half of the annual fee was due December 31, 2020. But we know many businesses are experiencing financial difficulties during this time. And while we can’t eliminate the fee, we hope this extension helps. Payments from the annual trash collection bill help to fund this essential City service.

As a reminder, single-unit homes, as well as properties that use a private trash service, don’t pay this fee. Some commercial and multi-use properties can take advantage of the City’s weekly trash collection, for this affordable, yearly amount.

You may have received the Refuse Collection bill that was mailed in early November. Although the deadline was extended by six months, we encourage you to pay as soon as possible.

There are many easy, safe ways to pay the annual Commercial Trash Fee (also known as Refuse Collection Fee).

  • Online – Secure and fast, the best way to pay.
  • By mail –  We accept payments with a cashier’s check, money order, personal check, or business check. Send payment to: Department of Revenue
    P.O. Box 966
    Philadelphia, PA 19105-0966
  • In person, by appointment – To limit in-person contact due to the COVID-19 health emergency, we encourage you to make payments online or by mail.

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 Commercial Trash Fee (or Refuse Collection Fee) exemption form.

  • Owner-Occupied Property, the property must be 100% occupied by the owner with no tenants, residential only. (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 owner must provide a current Vacant Property license from the Department of Licenses & Inspection. (100% discount, $0 due).
  • Owner-Occupied Duplex, the owner must live in one unit and have only one other rental unit. The owner must provide a current rental license from the Department of Licenses & Inspection. (50% discount, $250 due).

If you have questions about the Refuse Collection fee, email solidresources@phila.gov, or call (215) 686-6600.

Pay the Refuse Collection Fee today