MargL
I’m not sure we ever got an ‘official’ story from Seattle Public Utilities on this. So, being curious I just called customer service.
They say as far as they know the only time the collection contractor will replace the bins is when they are damaged in some way. I suppose the contractor’s ‘call’ on what constitutes ‘damaged’ is variable.
Also, according to the SPU rep – the containers they’re being replaced with should be the same capacity, either 96 or 64 gallons as your old one. If it’s definitely not and you’re going to regularly fill your container you can request another at no extra charge.
We don’t get billed for recycling, just for yardwaste and garbage. If you only occasionally have a little extra recycling you can put it out next to the recycling can and they’ll pick it up for no extra charge.
‘Course what SPU tells us and the contractors actually -do- is a different story so if you do get weird charges – like for extra units of garbage (check your bill) call and complain.
I was getting extra charges for yardwaste – I had a 64-gallon can but am paying the 96 gallon rate so I was putting out an extra can of yardwaste.
They replaced my yardwaste can with a ’96-gallon’ size -but- the bin really doesn’t look much bigger than the old one! In truth – checking the bin manufacturer’s website it’s only 95 gallons. Shrug.