17-03-2025
Leaving trash cans out too long is a misdemeanor in Mayfield Heights
[Watch in the player above: The fastest-growing cities in the U.S.]
MAYFIELD HEIGHTS, Ohio (WJW) — City residents can be ticketed for putting out their trash cans too early or picking them up too late.
The ordinance has been in effect for 50 years, but until a March 10 city council meeting, it never specified when residents were expected to collect their trash cans, Police Chief Anthony Mele wrote in a Monday news release.
Akron Children's Hospital patient attacked pregnant nurse: police
Under the updated ordinance, which took effect once it was approved, it's a minor misdemeanor to leave trash cans on the curb 24 hours after pickup. Read the updated ordinance below:
Under city ordinance, trash cans cannot be placed on the tree lawn before 6 p.m. on the evening before trash pickup, after 2 p.m. on Fridays or before 8 p.m. on Sunday or any holiday.
'The primary objective of this update is to enhance neighborhood aesthetics and mitigate the clutter caused by unattended trash cans lining the streets for extended periods,' reads the release.
'There have been instances where residents have expressed concerns regarding neighbors leaving trash cans out for days after collection,' Mele wrote. 'Previously, the city lacked the means to address such complaints.'
St. Patrick's Day Parade: Here's what to know
Penalties could include a fine of up to $150 or alternatively up to 30 hours of community service, at the court's discretion, according to city code.
It's unlikely police officers would actually cite residents under the ordinance 'as they have more pressing responsibilities,' Mele wrote. They'd prefer to encourage compliance, he wrote. They'll also use discretion for residents who may find it physically challenging or who have extenuating circumstances, he wrote.
Mayfield Heights contracts exclusively with Kimble Recycling and Disposal, according to the city's website.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
