Just landed in Alpharetta and trying to get life running fast? Week one can feel like a blur between boxes, contractors, and new routines. You want clear steps, reliable contacts, and no surprises with utilities or neighborhood rules. Use this simple checklist to set up water and sewer, trash and recycling, understand noise and burning rules, and plug into parks and trails right away. Let’s dive in.
First‑week essentials
Use this quick plan to hit the ground running:
- Confirm your water and sewer provider and open or transfer your account.
- Set up trash, recycling, and bulky or yard‑waste pickup; note your collection day.
- Review Alpharetta’s noise and open‑burning rules before you host or light any outdoor fire.
- Bookmark parks and trails, including the Alpha Loop and Big Creek Greenway.
- Start electric, natural gas, and internet accounts.
- Save key city and county contacts for quick access.
Water and sewer setup
Water and sewer in Alpharetta can be provided by the City of Alpharetta, Fulton County, or occasionally by a private system, depending on your address. That is why you should confirm the provider before you request service or pay a bill.
How to verify your provider
- Use the City of Alpharetta and Fulton County utility or parcel lookup tools to check service for your specific address.
- If you cannot confirm online, call City of Alpharetta Utilities or Fulton County Public Works customer service and give your new address and move‑in date.
Open or transfer your account
- If Fulton County is your provider: open or transfer a water and sewer account with Fulton County Public Works. You will typically need a photo ID, proof of ownership or lease, your service address, activation date, and possibly a deposit.
- If the City of Alpharetta is your provider: contact the City’s utility billing or customer service to start or transfer service. Similar documentation applies.
- In condo or HOA communities, ask your property manager if water is billed through the HOA.
Timelines and billing
- Activation usually takes 1 to 5 business days after account setup. Same‑day activation may be possible.
- A deposit may be required if you have no prior utility history.
- If you moved mid‑cycle, ask about a final read at your previous home and a pro‑rated first bill at your new address.
Trash, recycling, and bulky pickup
The City of Alpharetta manages residential trash and recycling and contracts curbside service to a private hauler. Republic Services is the current contractor in many neighborhoods, but you should verify your address and service details with the City’s sanitation program.
Your week‑one to‑do list
- Confirm your collection day through the City’s collection calendar or by calling sanitation customer service.
- Place carts at the curb by the required time, typically by 6 a.m. on pickup day or the night before. Bring them back in the same day to avoid violations.
- Check what is accepted in single‑stream recycling. Prepare cardboard by flattening, and avoid prohibited items like hazardous waste or electronics.
- Schedule bulky item pickup if needed, or review drop‑off options for materials not accepted curbside. Yard debris usually has limits and preparation rules, such as bundling branches and bagging leaves.
- If you live in an HOA community, ask if sanitation service and carts are managed by the association.
If something goes wrong
- For missed pickups, report the issue to the contractor’s customer service. Have your address and cart type ready.
- If your recycling was not collected, it may be due to contamination. Review acceptable materials and try again next cycle.
Noise and open‑burning rules
Alpharetta enforces local ordinances that cover noise, open burning, and use of outdoor fire devices. State air‑quality rules can also apply, especially during seasonal burn bans.
Noise basics
- Quiet hours and prohibited activities are defined in the municipal code. Typical rules cover loud music, amplified sound, construction noise, and commercial deliveries during late evening and early morning hours.
- If you experience persistent issues, save the city’s code compliance contact and the non‑emergency police number for follow‑up.
Open burning and fire pits
- Do not burn yard debris or trash until you confirm current rules. Many cities prohibit open burning within city limits.
- Recreational fires, such as fire pits or chimineas, may be allowed with limits. Common restrictions include distance from structures, device size, and approved fuel types like clean wood or charcoal.
- Check with the Alpharetta Fire Department or Fire Marshal for current guidance, permits, and any seasonal restrictions. Georgia Environmental Protection Division rules may also affect what you can burn and when.
Parks and trails to bookmark
Alpharetta’s trail network adds immediate lifestyle value. Two highlights are the Alpha Loop and Big Creek Greenway, along with several destination parks.
Alpha Loop
- The Alpha Loop is a multi‑use trail initiative connecting neighborhoods, downtown Alpharetta, and key activity centers. It is being built in phases, so completed segments and access points can change.
- Look up current maps, parking, and planned extensions. Local volunteer groups and project pages often post updates and safety notices.
Big Creek Greenway
- The Greenway offers paved paths and boardwalks for walking, running, and cycling. It connects to parks and neighborhoods in Alpharetta and nearby cities.
- Review trail hours, leash rules for pets, and passing etiquette. Check for seasonal closures or maintenance notices before you go.
Other parks to explore
- Wills Park features athletic fields, playgrounds, and an equestrian center.
- Webb Bridge Park and parks near North Point offer trails, courts, and open space.
- Use the City of Alpharetta Parks and Recreation pages to find amenities, hours, and event calendars.
Power, gas, and internet setup
Get your home connected in parallel with water and sanitation so you do not lose time.
- Electric: Georgia Power serves most of metro Atlanta. Use an address lookup to confirm service, start your account, and schedule activation.
- Natural gas: Georgia’s gas market is deregulated. Verify your gas distributor and select a marketer based on your address and preferences.
- Internet and TV: Common providers include Comcast Xfinity and AT&T. Use each provider’s address lookup to confirm availability and speeds.
Tip: If you are moving from out of state, gather your prior account numbers. Some utilities will waive deposits with proof of good payment history.
Save these key contacts
Create a single note on your phone with your account numbers, usernames, and support contacts. Include:
- City of Alpharetta Utilities and Customer Service
- Fulton County Public Works, Water and Sewer
- City of Alpharetta Sanitation program and the current hauler’s customer service
- City of Alpharetta Fire Department or Fire Marshal
- City of Alpharetta Code Compliance and non‑emergency police
- Parks and Recreation, Alpha Loop project pages, and Big Creek Greenway updates
A smooth start in Alpharetta
The first week sets the tone for your new life here. By confirming your water and sewer provider, dialing in trash and recycling, understanding local noise and burning rules, and finding your favorite trailheads, you will settle in with fewer surprises and more time to enjoy your neighborhood.
If you would like a local’s checklist tailored to your address or help coordinating move‑in logistics around closing, reach out to Sherry Poland to Request a Free Consultation or Instant Home Valuation.
FAQs
Who provides water and sewer for a new Alpharetta address?
- Use the City of Alpharetta and Fulton County utility or parcel lookup tools, or call their customer service lines with your exact address to confirm your provider.
How do you get trash and recycling carts in Alpharetta?
- Carts are typically supplied through the City’s sanitation program and its contractor; if carts are missing at move‑in, contact the City or the current hauler to request delivery and confirm your pickup day.
Is backyard burning allowed within Alpharetta city limits?
- Open burning of debris is often restricted; confirm current rules with the Alpharetta Fire Department and review Georgia EPD guidance before any burning, and follow size, setback, and fuel rules for recreational fires.
When can you use the Alpha Loop and Big Creek Greenway?
- You can enjoy both immediately during posted hours; check official pages for maps, parking, and any temporary closures due to weather or maintenance.
Who do you contact about noise complaints in Alpharetta?
- Start with the City’s code compliance office or the non‑emergency police line; the municipal code outlines quiet hours and how complaints are handled.
