Code of Alabama - Title 45: Local Laws - Section 45-49-252.07 - Storage and containers of solid waste prior to collection

Section 45-49-252.07 - Storage and containers of solid waste prior to collection.

(a) The property owner or occupant shall store solid waste on his or her premises or property or shall require it to be stored or handled in such a manner as to prevent the propagation, or harborage of rats or arthropod vectors or the creation of a sanitary nuisance.

(b) All garbage and putrescible matter or mixed garbage and rubbish shall be stored in containers which are nonabsorbent, water-tight, vector resistant, durable, easily cleaned, and designed for safe handling; or in paper or plastic bags having sufficient strength and water tightness and which are designed for proper containment.

(c) All solid waste containers shall be of adequate size and sufficient numbers to contain without overflowing all the refuse, except yard trash or bulky waste, a residence or other establishment generates within the designated period of time between collections. All containers shall be maintained in a sound, clean condition free from putrescible residue.

(d) Containers shall be free of all sharp edges and any inside structure which would prevent the free discharge of the contents.

(e) External stationary storage bins for putrescible solid waste shall be prohibited from being built or added on to existing or new buildings. New installations of underground receptacles shall be prohibited. Existing receptacles may continue in use until they become impractical to repair.

(f) Mechanically serviced containers (bulk containers) shall be designed or equipped so as to prevent spillage or leakage during on-site storage or transport, or both. The container shall be easily cleanable and located on firm, level ground or a concrete pad, and shall be easily accessible by the collection vehicle.

(g) Hazardous or infectious wastes whose uncontrolled release into the environment would cause acute or chronic effects, or both, on air and water quality; on fish, wildlife, or other biota, and on the health and welfare of the public shall be stored or transported only in special containers where due regard has been given to the hazardous nature of the waste, protective enclosures, and operating procedures, and where adequate measures are taken to assure personal safety, accident prevention, and detection of potential environmental damages.

(Act 81-450, p. 773, §8.)

Last modified: May 3, 2021