Starting in January, about 15,000 seniors in unincorporated Gwinnett will get a 15 percent discount on trash service, and property owners with valid vacant structure or boarding up permits will be exempt from paying solid waste collection fees.

The senior discount applies to seniors 65 or older with an annual income below $10,000 who have filed a senior homestead exemption, called an L3A, as well as those with incomes up to $25,000 who qualify for a senior school exemption, or L5A. Disabled people with an L5A exemption also will qualify for the discount.

The law defines a vacant structure as unoccupied with no utility usage for 60 days, unfinished when the building permit expired, or being held subject to foreclosure proceedings. Vacant structure permits are valid for one year and are renewable.

The Gwinnett County Solid Waste and Recycling Division's call center staff can answer questions at 770.822.7141weekdays or by e-mail at gcsolidwaste@gwinnettcounty.com.