Public Works Department - Waste Management

Refuse Containers

Large 96-gallon Automated Containers

Public Works provides a free automated refuse container to each residence serviced by automated collection trucks. The City will collect refuse from a maximum of two trash cans per address.  (See below for instructions for purchasing a second trash can.)

ONLINE REQUEST - Trash Container - New Residential
For use in requesting new trash containers for existing homes as well as newly constructed homes

Residents who have too much waste for a single container may purchase a second container by contacting the Waste Management Office and by mailing an order form with payment to the Public Works Department. The cost of additional container with tax included is $68.25

2nd Trash Container - Purchase Additional
Order form for 2nd 96-gallon trash container
(fill-in & print - PDF format)

The City will also replace damaged containers. To report a damaged container, call the Chesapeake Customer Contact Center at (757) 382-CITY (2489).

ONLINE REQUEST - Damaged Trash Container
Use to report damaged trash cans provided by the City

Smaller Automated Containers

The Waste Management Division also offers a smaller, 64-gallon refuse containers to people who have difficulty handling the standard 96-gallon containers. Senior citizens and ADA accommodations are available. Contact (757) 382-CITY (2489).

Residents who currently receive refuse collection service from the City may exchange the larger container for a smaller one by calling the Chesapeake Customer Contact Center at (757) 382-CITY (2489).

Containers and receptacles for garbage - Specifications

City Code Sec. 62-57.  Containers and receptacles for garbage--Specifications.

1. The city will furnish at no cost to the owners of qualifying single-family, duplex, triplex and townhouse residential property one automated container per dwelling unit having frontage on a public street, provided that the residential property is located in area in which automated service is available and practical. In other areas, containers as specified in subsection (b) of this section may be used. No garbage or trash shall be placed or stored in any container, automated or otherwise, that is so constructed or is so defective that the contents leak or spill out. The owner or occupant of the residential property shall be responsible for maintaining the container in good condition. Containers for garbage and trash shall be constructed, maintained and covered to prevent the entrance of or disturbance by animals. Garbage is to be drained of liquid.

2. Metallic or plastic receptacles, approved by the director of public works, with two handles and tight-fitting covers or otherwise contained so that animals cannot spill the contents shall be provided for garbage and trash in areas where automated containers are not available or practical. Such receptacles or bags shall not be larger than 30 gallons content and shall not exceed 60 pounds except when otherwise authorized by the director of public works.

3. Sturdy plastic or polyethelene bags may be used for garbage or refuse. Bags set out for collection must be placed in the automated garbage receptacle or, where not available or practical, in receptacles as described in paragraph (b) of this section.

4. Any container that does not conform to the provisions of this article or that may have ragged or sharp edges or any other defect liable to hamper or injure the person collecting the contents thereof shall promptly be replaced upon notice. Defective containers may be collected as refuse. The director shall have the authority to refuse collection services for failure to comply with this section.