Medical Exemptions for Trash & Recycling

What if I can’t bring my trash and recycling to the curb?

If you have a medical condition or physical limitation—and no one in your household can take the carts to the curb—you may qualify for a medical exemption. This allows the Town to collect your garbage and recycling from a location near your home.

  • This exemption is only for garbage and recycling. You must still place yard debris, bulky items, and white goods at the curb.

  • There is no cost for this service.

Do I automatically qualify if I’m a certain age?

No. Exemptions are based on medical or physical limitations, not age.

How do I apply for a medical exemption from curb collection?

Complete this form and submit it to the Town for review. There are two parts:

  • One section for you to complete

  • One section for your doctor to complete

Mail the form to:
Town of Southern Pines
Attn: Solid Waste Collection Exemption
801 SE Service Rd.
Southern Pines, NC 28387

OR, bring the completed form to either of these buildings:

  • Community Development – 801 SE Service Rd.

  • Utility Billing – 180 SW Broad St. (next to the post office)

If you don't have access to a printer, we're happy to provide a copy of the form. Please contact us:
By phone at 910-693-4183
By email


Do I need to re-apply each year?

Yes. Exemptions are valid for up to 12 months. To extend your exemption, submit a new application at least 30 days before it expires. 

To check your current status, please call 910-693-4183 or send us an email. 

Are temporary exemptions available?

Yes. If you have a short-term medical need (such as recovery from surgery or an injury), you can apply for a temporary exemption using the same form.

Medical Exemption Collection Guidelines

If you receive a medical exemption, your garbage and recycling will still be collected weekly with some special rules to follow:

Placement of Receptacles

  • Place your garbage and recycling carts out by 6:00 a.m. on your collection day.

  • Carts must be in front of or beside your home, unless your usual pickup is from a rear alley.

  • Carts must be clearly visible from the street or alley.

  • Carts must not be in fenced areas, garages, carports, or other blocked or enclosed spaces.

  • Make sure no vehicles block access to the carts.

Important Notes

  • If carts are not placed properly, they will not be collected, and the hauler will return on your next scheduled pickup day. You will not be eligible for a “missed collection” recall.

  • The Town will collect one cart for garbage and one cart for recycling per pickup. All waste must be inside the carts—loose items will not be collected.

  • Your cart’s wheels must be in good condition so it can be rolled safely. If your cart is damaged, call 910-693-4183 or email us to request a replacement.

  • After pickup, the hauler will return your carts to where you originally placed them.

Safety Requirements

  • Your property must be safe and accessible. Examples of unsafe conditions include:

    • Loose or tethered animals near the carts

    • Trip or slip hazards (like debris or uneven ground)

  • If unsafe conditions are reported more than once, the Town will send a written notice with instructions. If not corrected, the exemption may be suspended or revoked.

Additional Information

  • This exemption applies to garbage and recycling only. You must place yard debris, bulky items, and white goods at the curb for pickup.

  • There is no extra cost for this service.