Ocala approves new roll-off compactor waste ordinance

New roll-off compactor. [Photo courtesy city of Ocala]

A new city ordinance will introduce roll-off compactors to Ocala’s municipal solid waste collection system, designed to nearly double the time between collection at some sites.

The ordinance, passed by the Ocala City Council on Oct. 7, defines a “roll-off compactor” as a large, heavy-duty waste container with an integrated hydraulic ram designed to crush and reduce waste volume, allowing more trash to fit before pickup. It extends the maximum waste accumulation period to 14 days for sites using compactors, doubling the previous seven-day limit, with exceptions for severe weather, acts of God or official holidays that interrupt the collection cycle.

For apartment buildings, condominiums and other multifamily residences serviced by compactors, rates will be established by council resolution, offering flexibility beyond the fixed rates for dumpster-based services.

This change stems from a Dec. 3, 2024, council directive to staff to develop and implement roll-off compactor services, supported by the acquisition of necessary trucks, containers and equipment. Over the following months, staff developed protocols to enable the city to provide this service, necessitating updates to the ordinances to ensure proper regulation.

According to the ordinance, the council cites the amendments as essential for protecting the health, safety and welfare of Ocala’s citizens, aligning with the city’s best interests. The ordinance directs staff to take all necessary steps for implementation and authorizes the codifier to integrate it into the code of ordinances, with provisions for minor corrections or public hearing modifications.

Greg Davis, public information officer for the city of Ocala, provided further details on the rollout.

“Five locations within the downtown area have been identified as initial installation sites for the new compactors. These units will be placed on city-owned property. Additionally, multi-family complexes and businesses will have the option to receive waste service through either a roll-off compactor or a traditional dumpster, depending on their specific needs,” Davis said.

Regarding rate determination, Davis noted, “A consultant is currently conducting a comprehensive rate study to establish fair and sustainable pricing for this service. The study’s findings will be presented to the city council for review and adoption later this year.”

On public education, Davis said information will be provided to the affected customers.

Addressing health and safety measures, Davis added, “To maintain health and safety standards, all compactors will be serviced at least once every two weeks in accordance with the ordinance requirements.”

New roll-off compactor. [Photo courtesy city of Ocala]