News Summary
The City of Augusta revealed significant alterations to its trash collection and recycling services, scheduled to be implemented in January 2026. Key updates include the launch of curbside recycling with a 95-gallon cart, new pricing structures, and options for additional trash carts. Residents can enroll for these services online or via phone. The changes aim to enhance waste management while promoting sustainable practices in the community. As residents prepare for the transition, minor interruptions in trash cart provision may occur, but city officials assure minimal rate increases.
Augusta – The City of Augusta has announced new changes to its trash collection and recycling services, set to take effect beginning January 2026. These changes were publicized to residents on August 21, 2025, and include modifications to trash cart services, the introduction of curbside recycling, and updated pricing structures for waste disposal.
Starting January 1, 2026, residents who choose to participate will officially have access to curbside recycling services. Registration for these services commenced on August 1, 2025, and interested residents can sign up through the city’s website or by calling Coastal Waste & Recycling. Registered participants will receive a 95-gallon recycling cart, with collections scheduled to occur weekly between 7 a.m. and 8 p.m. on designated collection days.
As residents prepare for these changes, they may encounter a brief interruption in the provision of trash carts. While replacement trash carts can be provided within four weeks upon request, the potential for a “short delay” in their removal and replacement should be anticipated. Furthermore, residents have the option of requesting a second trash cart for an additional fee.
The new garbage collection services are part of a five-year contract signed between the Augusta commissioners and Coastal Waste Recycling, following a period of extended negotiations. It is important to note that recycling services will require a separate agreement, with an additional fee of $12 per month for residents opting to include these services in their waste management plan.
Current trash collection fees may undergo adjustments, though city officials assure that overall rate increases will remain minimal. Residents can select from various collection options—weekly, bimonthly, or monthly—corresponding to rates of $14.69, $13.69, and $12.69, respectively. Specifically, weekly collections will be made for residents who participate in the recycling program, enhancing waste management and sustainable practices.
The EPA underscores that recycling plays a significant role in benefiting communities, economies, and the environment. These initiatives aim to foster community involvement in responsible waste disposal, as well as promote environmental sustainability through recycling efforts.
Residents can report any service-related issues or seek assistance through Augusta 311 or the Augusta Trash and Recycling app, ensuring a responsive service experience. This new plan aims to streamline waste collection while increasing overall accessibility and convenience for residents of Augusta.
For detailed registration information, residents are encouraged to visit the Coastal Waste website or make contact via the provided phone number.
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Additional Resources
- WJBF: Augusta Provides Updates on Trash Collection & Recycling Services
- Wikipedia: Recycling
- WRDW: What Augusta’s New Garbage Contract Means for Your Wallet
- Google Search: Augusta GA trash collection
- Augusta Chronicle: Augusta Residents Can Register for Curbside Recycling
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Waste Management
- The Augusta Press: Augusta Extends Garbage Collection Contracts
- Google News: Augusta GA recycling

Author: STAFF HERE AUGUSTA WRITER
AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER The AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAugusta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Augusta, Richmond County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Arts in the Heart Festival, Westobou Festival, and Masters Week. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce and Greater Augusta Arts Council, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Textron Specialized Vehicles, Cardinal Health, and Nutrien. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.