Kauai County officials say some residents are hampering automated trash collections by improperly using refuse carts.

Acting County Engineer Lyle Tabata said Monday that the biggest problems involve carts overflowing with trash and carts being placed too close together or near obstructions, making it difficult for trucks to pick up the carts.

“The problems with the improper use of refuse carts by a number of residents is having a significant impact on our automated trash collection service,” Tabata said. “We have reached a point where we can no longer pick up trash for those who are not compliant with the rules.”

County rules regarding proper use of refuse carts include:

>> The cart lid must be fully closed.

>> Carts must be placed at least 5 feet away from any object, with at least 16 feet of clearance above the cart.

>> When carts are placed in a row, carts must be 3 feet apart.

>> All trash must be bagged before being placed in carts.

For more information, call the Solid Waste Division at 241-4841 or go to kauai.gov/refusecollection.