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Council limits placement of trash/recycling containers on city sidewalks, exempts Hillrest Drive
Summary
To keep sidewalks accessible, the council adopted Ordinance 2026-12 restricting placement of waste receptacles on sidewalks during collection; Hillrest Drive remains exempt. Staff cited sidewalk widths, accessibility standards and Frontier replacement policy for damaged bins.
The Balcones Heights City Council on June 22 approved an amendment to city code (Ordinance 2026-12) restricting placement of waste and recycling containers on public sidewalks to preserve pedestrian accessibility.
Staff explained the change follows citizen complaints that filled or placed bins force pedestrians, people using mobility devices and parents with strollers into traffic during collection days. Public works staff and code enforcement reviewed roadway cross-sections and Texas Accessibility Standards guidance and concluded that placement on sidewalks on most local and collector streets creates hazards; Hillrest Drive was specifically exempted as part of an earlier amendment.
Public works staff also noted Frontier (the hauler) will replace damaged bins returned after an impact. Council voted 4— 1 to adopt the amendment as presented.
Council asked staff to incorporate enforcement language and to coordinate public education for residents about placement rules and alternatives for curbside placement that maintain safe pedestrian travel.
Next steps: city staff will publish the amended code language, coordinate outreach to residents about proper placement, and monitor compliance during upcoming collection cycles.
