Citrus Heights residents to be fined $166 for piles set out too early

By Sara Beth Williams–
Republic Services announced in a Jan. 1 mailer to residents that setting out piles more than 48 hours in advance of a Neighborhood Cleanup collection day could result in fines exceeding $100.

In an effort to address blight and scavenging concerns, the Citrus Heights City Council in November approved an amendment authorizing Republic Services to issue penalties to customers who place bulk items out for collection too early. Fines are the same amount as would be charged for “Improper Large Item Collection” penalties of $166.30, according to the flyer.

The council voted unanimously 3-0 to approve the amendment on Nov. 13. Councilmember Porsche Middleton was absent from the meeting, and the District 1 seat was still vacant at the time. No comment was made by council members about the item before passing it as a consent calendar agenda item during the council meeting.

According to a city staff report, fines will not be issued during the first four-month cycle. Between January and April, Republic Services will identify items placed out prior to the 48-hour limit without issuing fines and instead “provide education” to the resident and account holder. After the first cycle of collection services, Republic Services will then be authorized to issue “Improper Large Item Collection” penalties.

Currently, the Neighborhood Clean Up program allows residents to place out bulk items for collection three times per year. The dates of collection alternate between neighborhood zones throughout the city. Residents are notified seven days in advance through a door hanger and are currently allowed to put out materials early but are “encouraged not to do so more than 48 hours in advance,” according to the city.

Piles are limited to 10 cubic yards in size, or about 10 feet by seven feet by four feet, according to the flyer. Piles that are larger than 10 cubic yards may be subject to an Excessive Pile fee, which can increase depending on the quantity of materials in the larger pile.