Can Landlords Charge for Trash and Recycling in Kentucky?

Understanding your rights regarding trash and recycling charges in Kentucky can prevent disputes with your landlord and help you budget accurately for monthly expenses. Many renters are unsure if landlords can add these fees, who must pay, and what to do if there’s a disagreement. This guide walks Kentucky tenants through the key rules, including what state law says about utility bills for trash and recycling services.

What Does Kentucky Law Say About Utility Charges?

Kentucky’s main rental law is the Kentucky Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (KRS Chapter 383).^[1] While not every city in Kentucky has officially adopted these rules, major cities like Louisville, Lexington, and Covington do, and they set a basic framework for rental agreements. Landlords in these areas must provide tenants a written lease that fully explains any fees or payments beyond rent—including for utilities such as trash and recycling.

Are Landlords Allowed to Charge for Trash and Recycling?

Yes, Kentucky landlords can require tenants to pay for trash and recycling services—but only if your lease agreement clearly states that you are responsible. If your written lease says nothing about trash, the landlord typically remains responsible for the service and its cost.

• If the lease states you must pay: The landlord may bill you separately or require you to set up service in your name.
• If the lease is silent: The landlord pays, as Kentucky law requires the owner to maintain basic operations unless the lease says otherwise.
• Always check your lease or rental agreement first.

Typical Trash & Recycling Billing Arrangements

• Trash is often included in city property taxes, so you may not see a separate bill—especially in apartments.
• Some landlords add a flat trash or recycling fee as part of monthly rent; others charge it as an extra utility.
• Landlords cannot charge late fees or additional penalties for these services unless your lease allows it.

Notice Requirements and Billing Transparency

Landlords must be transparent about any costs tenants are expected to pay. Under Kentucky law, any utility charge—including trash and recycling—should be:

• Written in the lease (verbal promises don’t count)
• Itemized clearly on any bill or invoice
• Discussed at lease signing so there are no surprises later

If your landlord starts charging a new trash or recycling fee not mentioned in your lease, you may have the right to dispute it.

What If You Disagree With Trash or Recycling Fees?

If you believe you are being unfairly charged, or if the lease is unclear, you have options. Tenants can start by:

• Talking to your landlord in writing about the issue
• Pointing to your lease’s utility clauses as evidence
• Contacting local city housing offices for mediation

To formally resolve disputes over utility charges, you may file a complaint with your city’s local housing department or the district court where your unit is located.

Official Forms for Renters Facing Utility Disputes

• Tenant’s Notice of Noncompliance (No Official Number): If you want your landlord to fix a lease violation regarding utilities, you can give written notice. For example, "You are charging extra for trash, but my lease says I don’t have to pay for this." View and download sample notice here.
• Kentucky Notice of Breach of Lease (Form 383.660): Use if your landlord is charging for a service not required in your lease. Fill out and deliver this notice to inform your landlord and start the process toward official resolution. Download the Notice of Noncompliance Form.

After sending a notice, keep a copy and record of delivery, such as certified mail or hand delivery with a witness.

Which Tribunal Handles Tenant-Landlord Disputes in Kentucky?

Most Kentucky tenant-landlord disagreements are handled in Kentucky District Court. In some cities, specialized city housing enforcement offices may assist with initial mediation, but court is where most legal decisions occur.

Action Steps for Kentucky Renters

If you want to dispute a trash or recycling charge, follow these steps:

• Review your lease for utility clauses.
• Write to your landlord raising your concern.
• Send an official Notice of Noncompliance using Form 383.660.
• If the issue isn’t resolved, consider contacting your local housing department or district court.

Remember, documentation and written communication can help protect your rights.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord make me pay for trash collection even if my lease doesn't mention it?
   If it’s not stated in your lease, your landlord cannot require you to pay for trash or recycling services in Kentucky. The responsibility remains with the landlord unless the lease says otherwise.
2. What should I do if my landlord adds new trash or recycling fees?
   Check your lease first. If these fees are not already listed, notify your landlord in writing and use the Notice of Noncompliance form to formally object.
3. Are trash and recycling fees usually included in Kentucky apartment rent?
   Often, yes—especially in city apartments where trash pickup is a city service. But always check your lease for details.
4. Where do I go if my landlord won’t resolve my utility billing complaint?
   You can seek help from your city’s housing office or take the dispute to Kentucky District Court for resolution.
5. Do I need to use a specific form to complain about unfair trash fees?
   To protect your rights, use the official "Notice of Breach of Lease" (Form 383.660). Send it to your landlord with a clear description of your complaint.

Summary of Key Takeaways

• Landlords in Kentucky can only charge tenants for trash and recycling if the lease says so.
• Any utility fees should be fully described and itemized in writing.
• If you disagree with a new or unclear fee, use written communication and the official Notice of Noncompliance form.

Understanding your lease and state laws can help prevent and resolve disputes about utility charges like trash and recycling.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Kentucky Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (KRS Chapter 383)
• Kentucky District Court Locator and Filing Info
• Louisville Metro Housing & Neighborhoods
• Kentucky Court System Legal Forms

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1. Kentucky Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
2. Notice of Noncompliance – Kentucky Form 383.660
3. Kentucky District Court Information
4. Louisville Metro Housing & Neighborhoods

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