Here is information you need to know about the large, durable, polyethylene refuse container on wheels - complete with attached lid, which we affectionately refer to as "Herbie".
This 90-gallon container identified by a serial number is the property of the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government. Herbie, whether delivered new or already at the residence upon your arrival, remains with the address on the Herbie. Do not take the Herbie with you if you move!
Herbie is the principal container used to collect waste in Lexington. However, other approved containers can be used if they are between 5 to 30 gallon capacity. All must have tight-fitting lids which keep water, animals and insects out. Containers must have suitable handles for lifting.
It is the obligation of the resident or proprietor to place all accumulated garbage and trash on the premises in the Herbie. Herbies are collected once a week – Monday, Tuesday, Thursday or Friday. Place the extra set-outs beside your Herbie. Be aware that anything within a 3-foot radius of the Herbie shall be deemed garbage to be collected as stated in city ordinance.
If your Herbie is stolen or vandalized, report it to the Division of Waste Management. Reports of stolen or vandalized containers will be investigated by the Division of Waste Management. If the investigation determines that the resident has been negligent in the care of the container, the resident must purchase the replacement container at a cost of $60. Persons who habitually leave their containers on the curb on non-collection days will be responsible for cost of any damage to the Herbie.
Damage from Ashes
Herbies damaged by ashes or any other flammable material will be replaced at the owner’s expense of $60. Ashes should be put in galvanized trashcan and water soaked for seven days prior to being placed at the curb for collection.
The Herbie container should be placed on the curb no earlier than 7:00 pm prior to your collection day or no later than 5:00 am on the day of your collection and must be removed from the curb no later than 7:00 pm on the day of your collection.
If you have a handicap which prevents you from rolling the cart and have no one to assist you, you may be eligible for a medical exemption by calling 425-2255.
The resident is responsible for the cleanliness of their Herbie. The Herbie can be cleaned with detergent and/or bleach. This reduces odor and germs that could be transmitted to our workers and our citizens.
Things to remember about your Herbie
- Please remember that the LFUCG–ordinances require that all garbage and trash shall be contained in disposable plastic bags. The bags shall be leak proof, of sufficient strength to resist tearing under normal handling, shall be securely tied and placed in the Herbie Container.
- Do not exceed Herbie's recommended weight capacity of 200 lbs. If the container will not roll, it is overloaded. If it is overloaded, it will not be emptied.
- Bricks, dirt, building material, metal car parts, or other excessively heavy material are not to be placed in the Herbie container.
- Do NOT put hot ashes, hot charcoal, paint, solvents, or flammable liquids in the Herbie. Use galvanized containers for hot ashes or hot charcoal. Paint is to be solidified with dirt, kitty litter or sand and placed beside the Herbie for collection.
- Do not put any medical waste in your container without first calling the Division of Waste Management (425-2255) for safe disposal procedures.
- Building rubbish from demolition or remodeling activities will not be collected by the Urban County Government. Professional contractors are responsible for disposing of tree trimmings, carpet, paint and other items used in performing their services. Construction material may be taken to the Construction & Demolition landfill (call 299-5715).
- Animal excrement should be put in a brown bag, then a plastic bag before placing in the Herbie.
- Broken glass must be put in galvanized containers.
Need your Herbie repaired, replaced, or an exemption form mailed?
When submitting an request, please give your name, address, and daytime phone number.