Goiânia officials warn of potential waste tax increases

Council members in Goiânia are warning that a recent decision by the Court of Justice of Goiás (TJGO) could force low-income families to pay the full amount of the Public Cleaning Tax (TLP), commonly known as the waste tax.

The legal challenge, initiated by councilwoman Aava Santiago, targeted the tax's calculation formula, which was previously declared unconstitutional. If the ruling stands, it could jeopardize existing 75% discounts and exemptions currently granted to more than 200,000 families. The city government has appealed the decision to preserve these benefits.

In 2026, the municipality provided exemptions for 209,296 real estate units, representing R$ 56.3 million in benefits. Local officials noted that the cost of urban cleaning is approximately R$ 806 million annually, with the mayor currently subsidizing 75% of that cost. The city maintains that the tax is essential for funding urban cleaning services and warns that a loss in revenue could compromise municipal services and investment capacity.