The City of Fairhope Code of Ordinance Section 12-14 (City of Fairhope Litter Law) states: It shall be unlawful for any person to sweep, rake, throw or otherwise deposit any waste matter or any other substance commonly known as garbage, trash or rubbish into or on the streets, alleys, parks, beaches, sidewalks or other public places in the city , or on the property of another without the consent of the property owner.

If you know of someone that may be violating this law, please call the Environmental Officer at 990-0192.

Did you know that even flicking a cigarette butt ouf of the car window violates Fairhope's litter law (City Code of Ordinance 12-14)?

The State of Alabama also has stringent "Criminal Littering" laws for anyone who deposits or drops litter type materials on our highways. In conjunction with PALS (People Against a Littered State), the City would like to challenge you as a resident to help us monitor violators (commonly known as Litter Bugs!) There is a simple reporting form that can be kept in your vehicle, and, should you see someone littering (we are targeting vehicles), you would write down the tag number, and send in the "Reporting Form" to PALS. PALS will then follow up on the complaint with a letter to the responsible party.

While no fine will be imposed from these reporting forms, your observations can go a long way in educating those who may not give littering a second thought. Print the form below, or call us to request one to be mailed to you, 990-0192.

Litter Statistics:

  • About 50% of litter is "accidently" deposited on our streets and highways
  • 96% of accidental litter bugs are males
  • 72% of intentional litter bugs are males
  • Only 40% of litter is from vehicles
  • 59% of litter is paper; 16% cans; 6% bottles; 6% plastic; 13% other

Source: "Alabama Litter Laws" brochure

For comments or to request more information, call us at (251) 990-0192, or e-mail us at Beth.Williams@cofairhope.com.

TRASH

Trash includes yard waste (limbs, leaves, grass), crates, old furniture, appliances and bulk materials and is collected weekly.

Yard waste must be separated from all other materials for yard waste recycling pickup.  DO NOT USE PLASTIC BAGS! Traditional plastic bags are not 100% biodegradable and do not fit in with the City’s yard waste recycling program. Composting at home is an excellent idea, also. If you bag your yard waste, please use our earth-friendly, compostable bags (available at City Hall and area hardware/garden shops for a minimal price).

Containers are NOT trash!  All containers which have had food or chemicals in them at one time must be contained with garbage, not trash. Also, remember garden pots must be bagged with garbage, too.

Any debris that may blow must be contained.  Do not place trash or debris in sidewalks or in roads and drainage areas.

Yard waste may be placed at curbside for pick up at any time.  Other trash, such as furniture and bulk items, may not be placed out for pick up more than 24 hours before pick up.  Call us if you are unsure which day is your “trash” pick-up day. You may call 990-0192 for specific information on your pick-up schedule.

Small electronics are considered "garbage" and should be placed beside your garbage can (radios, stereos, microwaves). However, Computer peripherals should be brought in for recycling to 555 South Section Street, Publics Works Dept.