Austin Resource Recovery proposes earlier setout time, clarifies return-trip and contamination fees

Jason, an Austin Resource Recovery staff member, briefed the Zero Waste Advisory Commission on the next round of proposed department administrative rule amendments. Staff said these are largely housekeeping and operational clarifications intended to align administrative rules with current practices.

Major proposals discussed included a change to the cart setout time from 6:30 a.m. to 5:30 a.m.; formalizing the department's late-setout and return-trip fees in the rules (fees already exist within the council-adopted fee schedule); added detail on contamination and examples of return-trip scenarios; and clearer guidance on yard-trimmings sizes and setout practices.

Jason explained that administrative rules describe how the department implements ordinances and council policy, and noted the redlined proposed rules will be posted to Speak Up Austin for a 30-day public comment period beginning Jan. 9. Staff will respond to online comments and return to SWAC with recommended final changes later in the spring or early summer with the goal of going to council thereafter.

When Commissioner Melissa asked whether residents who request additional recycling, compost or landfill carts will be charged per extra cart, Jason said he would verify policy but that his understanding is that the return-trip fee is applied per service call rather than per cart; he encouraged commissioners and the public to submit specific questions on Speak Up Austin for a definitive staff response.

Commissioners raised operational concerns about a proposed 15-foot clearance requirement (item 6.1.4) for automated equipment; staff said clearance relates to automated arm height and that Austin Energy coordinates tree trimming as needed. No formal rule changes were adopted at the meeting; the posting and comment period are the next steps in the administrative rule process.