Show All Answers

1. How do I know if I live or work in the Central Business District?

For the purposes of automated pick-up of solid waste the Central Business District was defined as: 800-1000 blocks of Main Street, 800 block of Commercial Street, 800-1000 blocks of Broad Street, 700-800 blocks of 4th Avenue, and 700-800 blocks of 5th Avenue. 

Residences and businesses in the Central Business District that currently have curbside collection will continue to have curbside collection of trash with purchase of stickers required. 

2. Do I need to use bags?

It is recommended you have your trash in a bag or multiple bags inside your cart in order to keep it clean but you will no longer have to purchase yellow city bags or city stickers. 

3. Does the city pick up recycling at the curb?

No.  A recycling drop-off center is located at the public service building (1411 1st Avenue). Those that are not able or do not wish to haul their recyclables to the drop-off center should place that material in their cart with their other trash.

4. What is the monthly charge for automated pick-up?

Monthly rates are set by the city council and can be found on the sanitation rates web page.

5. Can I have a special pick-up or pick-up of large items?

Yes. Arrangements for a special pick-up or pick-up of a large item can be made by calling Public Services at 641-236-2632. 

6. What if my trash will not fit in the cart?

If there are weeks when your trash will not fit in the cart you will need to purchase a sticker and bring your bag to the public service building for disposal in the appropriate dumpster. If your trash will not fit in the cart on a regular basis you may want to consider purchase of a larger cart. Contact public services at 641-236-2632 to discuss changing sizes. Replacement or additional carts will cost $50.00. 

7. What if I need a different size cart?

Replacement carts can be obtained by contacting public services at 641-236-2632. Replacement or additional carts will cost $50.00. 

8. My house is empty do I still need a cart?

Yes. Carts will be required at each property with a water meter in place. The cart stays with the property and will be used by the next occupant of the home. 

Homes that are vacant for three months or more can request reimbursement on their solid waste charges. Information on sanitation reimbursement can be found on the solid waste web page.

9. What if I move to a new home or location?

If you move the cart should stay with the house. Your new home, if in Grinnell, should already have a cart. If you prefer a different size cart at your new home, contact the Public Service department at 641-236-2632 to discuss changing sizes. 

10. My home is on an incline, where do I place my cart?

For homes without a level surface at the curb, the cart will need to be placed in the street. 

11. Can I still drop off trash at the public service building?

Yes, as long as it has a yellow sticker or is in a yellow city bag.