Backyard Service and Recertification

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Deadline Extended! 

Eligible residents now have more time to renew solid waste backyard service. To avoid a service disruption, submit your renewal application and doctor's verification by November 30, 2026.

Backyard Services Recertification Process

The City of Atlanta Department of Public Works offers solid waste and recycling backyard service collection, free of charge, to individuals who are incapable of placing their garbage and recycling carts at the curb.

To qualify:

All persons having physical limitations which prevent placement of garbage and recyclable materials containers at the curb are entitled to receive back yard garbage and recycling collection service without charge, provided the following requirements are met:

a) Age only criteria: Any residence where there are no persons between the ages of 12 and 70 capable of placing garbage or recycling at the curbside.

b) Physical condition criteria: Each person between the ages of 12 and 70 at a residence not capable of placing garbage or recycling at the curbside must present a certificate from a physician licensed to practice medicine by the State of Georgia stating that such person is physically incapable of placing garbage or recycling at the curbside.

What Happens Next

After you submit your request, please allow up to seven (7) business days for a response. If approved, you will be notified of your scheduled collection day. Before service begins, the property must be inspected within three (3) business days.

Yard Trimmings

Yard trimmings will not be collected from backyards. All yard trimmings must be placed at the curb for collection.

How to Submit Your Application
You may submit the completed application to the Department of Public Works in one of the following ways:

• Online: Backyard Service Request Form
• Fax: 404-546-9073
• Walk-in:
  55 Trinity Avenue SW, Suite 4700
  Atlanta, GA 30303
  Monday–Friday, 8:15 a.m.–5 p.m.
• Mail:
  City of Atlanta Department of Public Works
  c/o DPW Customer Engagement Team
  55 Trinity Avenue SW, Suite 4700
  Atlanta, GA 30303

Incomplete forms or missing documents may result in interruption or cancellation of service.

Property Access

City vehicles must be allowed to enter the property for collection. If not, additional rates will apply.

Annual Renewal

Yearly renewal for backyard services must be completed between January 2 and April 30 to avoid interruption or cancellation of service.

Service Cancellation

To cancel backyard service, please email your request to pwsettlements@atlantaga.gov or fax 404-546-9073. Be sure to include the resident’s name and service address, as well as the sender’s name if it differs from the resident.

For assistance contact ATL311 at www.atl311.com or dial 404-546-0311.