Senior and Disability Services

Senior Citizen Discounts and Exemptions

Backyard Garbage and Recycling Services

Solid Waste Services offers backyard service to senior residents who are 70 years of age or older, live alone, and are physically incapable of placing the garbage at the curb.

If the person is not capable of placing garbage at the curb, then they must present a licensed physician's certified statement stating that such a person is physically incapable of placing the garbage at the curb. 

RE-CERTIFICATION FOR BACKYARD SERVICE IS REQUIRED ANNUALLY.

If eligible based on the above criteria, you must submit the following:

• Completed New or Cancel Backyard Service Request Form
  • Form also available online
• Certified statement from a licensed physician
  • Statement must state the person is physically incapable of placing the garbage and recycling at the curb and proof of age
• Government issued photo ID
  
  

Submit the completed documents through either of these channels:

• Online  
• Fax: 404-546-9073
• Walk-in Location
  55 Trinity Avenue SW, Suite 4700
  Atlanta, GA 30303
  Hours of Operation: Monday – Friday, 8:15 a.m.– 5:00 p.m.
  
  
• Mail
  

  City of Atlanta Department of Public Works
  c/o DPW Customer Engagement Team
  55 Trinity Ave SW, Suite 4700 Atlanta, GA 30303

An incomplete form and missing documents will result in service delays. After submitting your request, please allow up to seven (7)  business days for a response.

Once backyard service is approved, you will be notified of your scheduled collection day. An inspection of the property where backyard service has been requested must be completed within three (3) business days before services begin.

If backyard service is requested and the person requesting the service does not meet the age or physical condition criteria, then the citizen must pay $1,439.04 to receive this service per City Municipal Ordinance 130–37.

Send check to:

City of Atlanta
Attn: Backyard Services
68 Mitchell St., Suite 4800
Atlanta, GA 30303

NOTE: City of Atlanta trucks must be able to enter the driveway for collection and the backyard must be accessible to DPW personnel. Otherwise, backyard service cannot be provided. All yard trimmings must be placed curbside for collection.

If you would like to cancel backyard service, email pwsettlements@atlantaga.gov. Please include your name and address, and someone will follow up with you.

Visit ATL311 for additional information on how to Request New or Cancel Backyard Service or Backyard Service Re-Certification Process.

Senior Citizen Solid Waste Discount

• Taxpayers, aged 65 and over
• Have an annual income of $39,000 or less   

Hardship Cases 

Hardship cases are reviewed by Fulton County with regards to making payment arrangements, but not reductions on the bill.

Customers should contact the Fulton County Tax Commissioner's Office at (404) 613-6100 to make payment arrangements or for more information on the reduction.

The City of Atlanta offers a Solid Waste Recycling Exemption for eligible Seniors.

Criteria are as follows:

• All citizens aged 65 or older before January 1, 2026
• Have income less than $25,760.00 of income for calendar year 2025

The $126.87 recycling discount is available immediately. Download the Recycling Fee Exemption form, or call (404) 330-6240.

Return application to:

City of Atlanta, Department of Public Works
55 Trinity Avenue, SW, Suite 4700
Atlanta, Georgia, 30303