What is the size of your trash cart?
Garbage archaeologists have learned…the volume of garbage that Americans produce expands to fill the number [or size] of receptacles that are available to put it in.
Rathje, William and Cullen Murphy. Rubbish! HarperCollins Publishers, Inc. 1992
We are very fortunate here in Austin, Texas. We may choose different size trash carts and basically “pay as you throw.” Several cities in Central Texas only have one size and it’s usually the 96 gallon, the largest.
The following chart contains estimates of the number of bags each cart size may hold based on a standard 13 gallon trash bag. The number of bags will depend on how full the bags are. I recommend checking with neighbors if unsure about downsizing.
To change your cart size, call 512-494-9400. Prices updated as of 12/07/19:
| Cart Size | Bags Held | Cost/Month | Cost/Year |
| 24 gallon | 1-2 bags | $18.55* | $222.60 |
| 32 gallon | 2-3 bags | $19.80* | $237.60 |
| 64 gallon | 4-5 bags | $24.95* | $299.40 |
| 96 gallon | 5-7 bags | $43.50* | $522.00 |
*Includes base fee of $14.70. Carts 64-gallons and smaller cost $0.16 per gallon; the 96-gallon cart costs $0.30 per gallon.
We have a 24 gallon trash cart. We have two adults, one baby in disposable diapers, and three dogs. We can fit everything in our cart each week.
Do you have Extra Trash only sometimes? Want to downsize but have tons of family or parties perhaps at Christmas or Thanksgiving? Extra trash may be put out with an Extra Trash Sticker $4 + tax available at HEB, Randalls, and Fiesta Mart. Participating stores are listed HERE.
Extra trash bags put to the curb without a sticker will be charged a per-bag fee of $9.60 + tax.
Make sure your lid closes all the way. You may be fined for extra trash if your lid isn’t closed.
City of Austin Residential Trash / Bulk/ Apartment Dwellers Guide
City of New Braunfels Residential Trash / Excess Trash & Bulky Items
City of Round Rock Residential Trash
City of San Marcos Residential Trash / Apartment Dweller Quick Facts
Apartments should check with their provider/contractor or that provider/contractor(s) website(s) for instructions/restrictions.