Phoenix Trash Collection Costs Could Rise Nearly 50% by 2028

City officials cite rising operational expenses as reason for proposed fee hikes over next 3 years

Mar. 21, 2026 at 4:49am

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Facing a multi-million-dollar budget shortfall, the Phoenix Public Works Department is proposing a nearly 50% increase in solid waste fees for residents over the next three years. The department cites rising costs for staffing, vehicles, and maintenance as the reason for the proposed hikes, which would see monthly bills rise from around $37 currently to $48 by 2028, with additional annual inflation increases after that.

Why it matters

The proposed trash fee increases could significantly impact Phoenix residents, especially those on fixed incomes. With the cost of living already high, an almost 50% jump in a basic service like trash collection could strain household budgets and force some to make difficult choices.

The details

Under the proposal, Phoenix residents would see a $6 monthly increase this summer, another $6 increase in July 2027, and a final $5 increase in 2028. After that, annual inflation increases of up to 5% would be applied through 2034. The department says it needs the additional revenue to cover a projected $20.8 million budget shortfall this fiscal year, with staffing costs up 32%, vehicle costs up 52%, and maintenance up 40% since 2020.

  • The first $6 monthly increase is proposed for this summer.
  • A second $6 monthly increase is planned for July 2027.
  • A final $5 monthly increase is scheduled for 2028.

The players

Phoenix Public Works Department

The city department responsible for trash collection and other public works services in Phoenix.

Lorizelda Stoeller

Deputy Public Works Director for the city of Phoenix.

Connie Cabot

A 50-year resident of Phoenix who is concerned about the proposed trash fee increases.

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What they’re saying

“We really want to ensure that we can continue providing this essential service. Just to cover the operational expenses that we're feeling and keep pace with those rising costs, and then it also prepares Phoenix for the future, to plan for the additional homes that we're bringing in.”

— Lorizelda Stoeller, Deputy Public Works Director

“I thought, Holy Toledo, that's happening in just a couple of years. I'm most worried about this just being the start and this becoming so unaffordable for people.”

— Connie Cabot, Phoenix Resident

What’s next

Residents have until the end of the month to submit their thoughts on the proposed trash fee increases online. Two final community meetings will take place on Wednesday night, and the Phoenix City Council is expected to vote on the proposal on April 22.

The takeaway

The proposed nearly 50% increase in Phoenix's trash collection fees over the next three years highlights the financial pressures facing municipalities as operational costs rise. While the city says the hikes are needed to maintain essential services, the impact on residents, especially those on fixed incomes, will be significant and could force difficult choices about household budgets.