Tidy-Up Tacoma

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I Request Tidy-Up Tacoma services?

Tacoma FIRST 311 is the best way to request services and track the progress of your request. You can access this service by phone, web, or mobile app:

• By Phone: City of Tacoma staff are available 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday-Friday to answer general questions and address issues related to City of Tacoma services. If you’re calling from within city limits, dial 311 (or (253) 591-5000  if you’re calling from outside city limits).
• Online: Tacoma FIRST 311 is available online 24-hours a day at tacoma.gov/311.
• Mobile App: A mobile app is available for download on Apple and Android devices.

How can I get involved with Tidy-Up Tacoma?

There are several programs where community involvement plays an important role. Visit our Community Cleanup Programs page to learn more about How to get involved!

• Adopt-a-Spot / Neighborhood Litter Patrol: Help reduce litter and keep our public spaces clean by participating in one of these programs. Participants receive free safety and litter pick-up supplies. Contact the Program Coordinator at (253) 502-2100 or litter@tacoma.gov for questions or more information.
• Adopt-a-Storm Drain: Volunteer 15 minutes, twice a month, to keep our waterways clean and communities healthy. Adopt a storm drain in your neighborhood and keep it clear of leaves, trash, and other debris to reduce water pollution and prevent localized flooding.
• Neighborhood Pet Waste Station: Sponsor a dog waste station with bags and signage to remind dog walkers to scoop, bag, and trash dog waste.
• Become a Volunteer: As an individual or as part of community groups, you are part of the solution to protecting Tacoma’s environment.

How is Tidy-Up Tacoma funded?

The City Council approved a 6% local excise tax on solid waste services as part of the 2023-2024 biennial budget. The funds generated from this tax continue to support Tidy-Up Tacoma, which was previously funded with one-time money from the American Rescue Plan Act and other City funds. On average, a residential customer with a 60-gallon garbage container will see about $3 per month added to their bill.

For more information, join a community-based cleanup organization and help us keep Tacoma clean and beautiful!

Why is the Tidy Up Program adding even more cans?

Tacoma residents and businesses have consistently asked for more visible litter control and cleaner public spaces. Solid Waste Management currently maintains about 240 public garbage cans, mostly in business districts. Many busy areas (including Pacific Avenue business district and Portland Avenue business district – among others) lack public garbage can coverage. Expanding the network by 120 cans in 2026 helps address these service gaps and supports cleaner, safer, and more attractive streets.

What is the total cost, and how will that funding be sustained?

The total investment for the expansion is $627,000 ($431,000 in one-time costs and $196,000 in ongoing annual costs). The garbage can expansion is fully funded through the existing Solid Waste Excise Tax that was approved in the City’s 2023–2024 biennial budget to enhance litter, debris, and graffiti cleanup programs. No additional rate increases are proposed as part of this expansion.

How will the expanded program be staffed and maintained?

The expansion adds two full-time Solid Waste workers dedicated to installing, maintaining, repairing, and cleaning the public garbage cans, including removing graffiti. With this added staffing, the program can shift from a reactive approach to a proactive one, with routine inspections to keep cans clean and in good condition. All existing and new cans will receive anti-graffiti coating, and staff will use an all-electric service vehicle with a lift gate to support safe and efficient operations.

How are the locations for new cans selected?

New cans are placed where they’re needed most in business districts and commercial areas using a consistent, data-driven approach. The Tidy Up Team reviews community input, 311 service request data, and field observations to identify areas experiencing litter and cleanliness concerns. The program also prioritizes historically underserved business districts and commercial corridors to ensure all installed cans receive equitable, consistent maintenance.

Will public garbage cans be available to place in residential neighborhoods?

At this time, Tidy-Up Tacoma can only support public garbage cans in business districts and dense commercial areas. While residential areas are not currently included in the program, the Tidy Up team continues to collect feedback and evaluate needs to help inform potential future program expansions.

What is being done to prevent graffiti, vandalism, and other damage to the cans?

All cans will receive a durable anti-graffiti coating so graffiti can be removed quickly and effectively. Two dedicated staff members will also regularly inspect, clean, repair, and replace cans as needed as part of an ongoing maintenance program.