New garbage collection: What residents need to know

By Amy Ducote

Avoyelles Parish residents will see major changes to household garbage collection beginning in January 2027, raising questions about additional containers, overflowing trash and roadside placement.

Pelican Waste & Debris will introduce automated trucks equipped with mechanical arms to empty garbage containers. The change will require residents to follow new rules for container placement and acceptable waste.

Information released by Pelican Waste and parish officials addresses many of the most common questions.

When does the new service start?

The new garbage collection contract is scheduled to take effect in January 2027.

Residents will begin receiving their new garbage containers in December 2026, but those containers should not be used until the new service officially begins in January.

Until then, residents should continue using their current containers and following existing collection procedures.

Will pickup day change?

Pelican says residents will keep their regular garbage collection days when the new service begins.

Will it cost more?

The new service is funded through taxes already collected. Each residence will receive one 95-gallon container at no additional charge. Residents who want an additional container must pay a one-time $95 fee.

The containers remain Pelican Waste property and are assigned to the service address. They must be left behind if a resident moves.

Can residents continue using their current garbage cans?

Existing industrial-style carts may be used if compatible with the automated lifter. Confirm compatibility and the maximum number of carts with Pelican. Not every rolling garbage can will necessarily qualify.

Where should containers be placed?

Containers must be placed at the curb with wheels facing away from the street and at least three feet of clearance from other containers and obstructions. Set them out the night before collection or by 4 a.m. on pickup day and remove them promptly afterward. Improperly placed containers may not be emptied.

What about narrow roads and drainage ditches?

Residents living along narrow roads, deep ditches or areas with limited roadside space have raised concerns about safely positioning containers. Specific solutions have not yet been provided. Residents are encouraged to bring these concerns to the Nov. 4 public meeting, where Pelican Waste and parish officials are expected to answer questions.

Can extra bags be left beside the container?

No. All garbage must fit inside the cart with the lid fully closed. Bags or other items beside the cart are not included in the published collection rules. Overfilled containers may not be emptied.

What garbage is allowed?

Household garbage should be bagged before being placed inside the container. Grass, leaves and small branches should also be bagged to help prevent spills, odors and litter. Hot ashes, coals, household hazardous waste and medical waste are prohibited. If a container cannot be emptied because of overfilling, prohibited materials or improper placement, Pelican Waste may leave an "OOPS" notice explaining the problem.

What happens on holidays?

Pelican Waste observes Mardi Gras, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day. If a regular collection day falls on one of those holidays, garbage will be collected the following day.

What if a container is lost, stolen or damaged?

Residents should not paint, alter or modify Pelican Waste containers. Containers damaged by the company during collection will be replaced at no charge. Damage caused by customers may result in a replacement fee. Stolen containers should first be reported to law enforcement, followed by a report to Pelican Waste at 225-263-8260.

What about Simmesport residents?

Simmesport previously purchased garbage containers for its residents. According to information shared by the Police Jury, those containers are compatible with the new automated system. Simmesport residents are expected to have two 95-gallon containers available for collection, including the new container provided under the parish contract.

Why is garbage collection becoming automated?

Automated collection is intended to improve worker safety by using mechanical arms to empty garbage containers, reducing heavy lifting and potential injuries. While some residents have concerns, others welcome the safety benefits.

Residents encouraged to attend public meeting

Residents are encouraged to attend a public meeting Wednesday, Nov. 4, at 6 p.m. at the LSU AgCenter, 8592 U.S. Highway 1 in Mansura.

Pelican Waste and Police Jury representatives are expected to explain the new system and address concerns about container placement, narrow roads, drainage ditches and additional garbage.

For more information, call Pelican Waste at 225-263-8260, email customerservice@pelicanwaste.net or visit pelicanwaste.net.