Phoenix Trash Bills Set To Rise After Council Approves Multi-Year Rate Increase

PHOENIX, AZ — Phoenix residents will see their monthly trash bills rise over the next few years after the City Council approved a new solid waste rate plan this week, marking a smaller increase than originally proposed.

Starting in July 2026, the monthly residential solid waste rate will increase by $5 to $42.32, according to Public Works. Another $5 increase will follow in July 2027, bringing the rate to $47.32, and a final $4 increase in July 2028 will raise it to $51.32.

After that, the city will not lock in a flat rate. From July 2029 through July 2033, officials may raise rates by up to five percent each year, depending on an annual financial review of the solid waste system.

The plan also changes the Green Organics subscription fee, which will be set at one-fourth of the standard solid waste rate — or $10.58 — starting July 1, 2026.

City officials say the increases reflect years of rising costs. Since the last rate adjustment in 2020, staff costs have risen 32 percent, vehicle costs have increased 52 percent and construction and maintenance costs for key infrastructure have climbed 40 percent. Over the same period, the monthly solid waste rate has increased about two percent per year, officials said.

That has left the Solid Waste Division facing a projected $20.8 million budget shortfall this fiscal year, officials said. They say the new rates are needed to close that gap, keep revenue aligned with expenses and maintain reliable service.

The final plan is also smaller than what was first proposed. After community meetings and a customer survey, Public Works revised its February recommendation, reducing the three-year increase from $17 to $14. Officials said operational efficiencies helped bring down the increase.

“This rate adjustment will ensure the operation can meet rising inflationary costs, prepare for future customer growth and continue to provide essential solid waste collection and management,” Public Works Director Felipe Moreno said.

The plan also raises the discount for residents who downsize their trash carts. Customers in the Save As You Reduce and Recycle program who switch from a 90-gallon cart to a 60-gallon container will now receive a $5 monthly discount, up from the $3 originally proposed.

The city is also increasing support for residents struggling to pay utility bills. Public Works said it will double its contribution to Project Assist to $440,000 annually, helping support a $1.2 million fund that assists residents with city services costs.

Full details are available at phoenix.gov/swrate2026.