Manatee County begins distributing 96-gallon trash bins

Manatee County is rolling out — literally and figuratively — wheeled 96-gallon trash-collection bins as part of an overall program to automate and consolidate pickup service.

The free bins will begin arriving to residents soon, county officials said, though their use will not be compulsory until Oct. 6. Their implementation will coincide with automated lift-and-dump trucks that can be operated by a solo driver.

“The Big Bin Advantage represents a significant step forward in modernizing our waste-management services,” said Patrick Shea, Manatee County Utilities Director. “By adopting larger, standardized bins, we are aligning with industry standards that prioritize efficiency, environmental responsibility, and customer convenience.”

County leaders say the shift will pave the way for weekly single-day neighborhood collection of household trash, recycling and yard waste which currently is undertaken by several trucks on multiple days to the same address.

Residents can request an extra trash bin by calling 941-792-8811.

Smaller, 64-gallon recycling bins for single-stream collection are already in use throughout the county. Beginning on Oct. 1, yard waste must be in bins, bundles or paper bags at the curbside.

For information, visit MyManatee.org/BigBin or contact Manatee County Utilities Customer Service at 941-792-8811.