FAQ

Q: When do the new Solid Waste rates go into effect?

A: The new solid waste rates are effective as of October 1, 2024, as follows:

· Residential Customers: $34.91 to $38.23 service fee per month

· Commercial Customers: $71 to $95 tipping fee per ton

Complete Rate Schedule: to view the new rate schedule in full please visit the Solid Waste website: https://www.tampa.gov/document/solid-waste-fees-01-2022-90561

Q: Why are the solid waste rates being adjusted? A: The rate adjustment is critical to maintaining the quality and effectiveness of the waste services the department delivers to its residential and commercial customers. After nine years without rate adjustments, we recognize the need to reevaluate the solid waste rates in light of the rising costs of the invaluable services we offer.

Residential Customers

Q: How will the rate adjustment affect residential customer collection? A: Residential customers will not see any changes to the current collection services offered. The adjustment allows the City of Tampa Department of Solid Waste to maintain and continue offering a wide range of residential and commercial collection benefits which include:

· SWEEP Annual Neighborhood Clean-up

· Disability Collection Service

· Senior Discount

· City of Tampa Special Events and Parade Clean-ups

· First Responders – Post Natural Disasters and Emergency Events

· Christmas Tree Curbside Collection

· Bulky Waste Collection Service

· Litter Skimmer Trash Boat – Waterways Clean-up

· Free Drop-off Disposal at McKay Bay Waste Disposal Complex

· Residential Curbside Collection of Garbage, Recycling, and Yard Waste

· Commercial Garbage and Recycling Collection and Disposal Services

· Tampa Trash and Recycling App – Service Lookup and Notifications

· Alternative Fuel Use to Reduce Expenses and the Department’s Carbon Footprint

· State of Florida’s Brownfields Program

· Waste Reduction and Recycling Educational Programs:

o Backyard Composting Program

o Bead-Free Bay Program

o Annual 3R’s Art and Poetry Competition

Q: Are there any discounts or assistance programs?

A: Yes, residents may qualify for one of the two following assistance programs:

· Senior Discount: Residents 65 years of age or older may obtain a $4.15 discount on their monthly garbage collection bill. The application must be notarized, and proof of age is required. Refuse set out is limited to one City-issued trash and recycling cart on each collection day of the week. For more information visit https://www.tampa.gov/solid-waste/programs/residential-services/elderly-discounts.

· Customer Assistance Program: Residents 65 years of age or older, and low-income residents may obtain a 9.5% discount on their monthly garbage bill if they fall at or below the 50% median household income limit for Average Monthly Income (AMI). For more information visit https://www.tampa.gov/city-of-tampa-utilities/payment-assistance-programs

Commercial Customers Q: How will the rate adjustment affect commercial customers? A: Commercial customers will experience a rate increase proportional to the size of their waste containers and the frequency of pickups. Full details can be found by viewing the new rate schedule at: https://www.tampa.gov/document/solid-waste-fees-01-2022-90561

Q: Are there any special programs for businesses to reduce their waste disposal costs?

A: Yes, businesses can participate in our waste reduction and recycling programs to potentially lower their waste disposal costs. Information about these programs is available on our website at https://www.tampa.gov/wastereduction

Billing and Payment Q: When will the new rates appear on my bill?

A: The new rates will be reflected on your bill starting in October 2024. The adjusted amount will appear on your next billing cycle following this date.

Q: How can I pay my solid waste bill?

A: You can pay your solid waste bill through your utility by phone, online, by mail, or in person at any private center authorized to accept utility payments for the City of Tampa.

Q: Will there be any changes to my waste collection schedule?

A: No, the rate adjustment will not affect your waste collection schedule. Your collection days will remain the same. Additional Support and Information

Q: Where can I find more information about the new rates and services?

A: For more information, or question and concerns the following resources are available.

· Visit our website at http://www.tampa.gov/solidwasterates
· Contact our customer service department at (813) 274-8811,
· Message us at https://www.tampaconnect.com/CRM/s/

Q: Where can I find more details about the solid waste management services in Tampa?

A: Detailed information about our solid waste services can be found at tampa.gov/solidwaste**