Paducah announces solid waste changes effective Sept. 1

PADUCAH, Ky., (KBSI) — The Paducah Board of Commissioners has approved amendments to expand city services and improve efficiency in the Public Works Department’s solid waste operations. The changes, which take effect Sept. 1, include updates to curbside recycling, yard waste collection and compost facility fees.

Mayor George Bray said the changes reflect community input.
“We have been listening intently to feedback from the community to develop these enhancements,” Bray said. “I am 100 percent committed to ensuring that our community is greener, cleaner and more sustainable for generations to come.”

Public Works Director Chris Yarber said the department is focused on simplifying processes for residents.
“With these operational changes and the approval to purchase additional equipment, the residents should be able to quickly see results across the city,” Yarber said. “We have simplified the process for brush collection and curbside recycling.”

Curbside Recycling

Beginning Sept. 2, curbside recycling will be collected every other week on the same day as household garbage instead of on Mondays. City officials said this will increase the number of recycling collections per year. Calendars showing the pickup schedule are being mailed to households and are available online.

“There is no separate fee for curbside recycling, as it is included with the monthly solid waste fee,” Bray said. “Recycling is now easier, more convenient and cheaper than ever before.”

Residents can sign up for the service by calling the Public Works Department at 270-444-8511 or visiting the city’s website.

Yard Waste and Brush Collection

Crews will make weekly rounds across the city without requiring residents to schedule collection unless piles exceed size guidelines. Brush piles must not exceed 10 feet in length and 5 feet in height, with limbs no longer than 48 inches and no wider than 15 inches in diameter. Oversized piles will incur a $150 fee.

Bagged leaves and yard debris must be separated from brush piles. Yard waste left by lawn or tree services will be collected if it meets size guidelines.

Compost Facility Fees

Fees at the Compost Facility will increase for the first time since 2017. Updated fees are posted on the city’s website.

Public Outreach

Residents will receive a letter from the mayor, a recycling schedule and a brochure from the Public Works Department in the mail summarizing the changes.

City officials said additional updates, including a proposed expansion of bulk item collection, will be considered in the future.