Before you begin
To pay your fee, you’ll need:
- The Letter ID found at the top of your bill (including the letter “L”).
- Your OPA Number (also found on your bill notice).
Service overview
Some small commercial establishments and multi-unit properties can choose to have the City collect their trash and recycling for a fee. If they prefer, the owners can hire private haulers instead.
This fee was previously called the Refuse Collection Fee.
Who
Commercial, multi-unit residential properties with six or fewer units, and mixed-used properties are eligible. Private premises eligible under Section 1.6 of the sanitation regulations can also get commercial collection.
Requirements
The premises cannot exceed the following set-out limits:
- For non-recyclable trash, no more than six 32-gallon receptacles or twelve plastic bags, or an equivalent combination of the two.
- There is no limit on recyclables.
Some locations may be exempt from paying the fee. For a list of exemptions and the required form, see the Commercial Trash Fee Exemption form. You can also file for an exemption online at the Philadelphia Tax Center. Use the “Property” panel and search by address. You will be asked to upload documentation according to the exemption criteria.
Cost
per year
How
If necessary, you can pay the Commercial Trash Fee in two installments without interest and penalties. The first installment of $250 is due by December 31. The second installment is due by June 30.
Online
You can pay this fee online at the Philadelphia Tax Center. Use the “Property” panel and search by address. You do not need a username or password to pay online. You can access the website on a computer, tablet, or smartphone. You can pay by eCheck without processing charges.
By mail
You can submit a payment for a bill you’ve already received by mail. We accept mail-in payment by:
- Cashier’s check.
- Money order.
- Personal check.
- Business check.
You can mail your form and payment to:
Department of Revenue
P.O. Box 966
Philadelphia, PA 19105-0966
In person
We accept in-person payment by:
- Cash (only at the Municipal Services Building).
- Credit or debit card (fees apply).
- Cashier’s check.
- Money order.
- Personal check.
- Business check.
To learn more about in-person payments, including hours and availability, visit the Department of Revenue’s contact page.