Austin leaders took an initial step toward regulating disruptive dumpster collections that have been reported as a persistent nuisance by residents citywide.

Today, dumpster pickups aren't covered by local regulations that limit loud noises, and that activity can take place at all hours of the day. For residents who live near commercial areas with multiple dumpsters, collections can prove to be an annoyance, especially during late-night hours. Multiple council offices have received complaints about collection activities, leading officials to launch a process this spring aimed at banning dumpster pickups at "unreasonable hours" near homes and apartments.

Council member Mike Siegel, who sponsored the proposal, said he's fielded concerns about noisy trash pickups since coming into office and is seeking to provide residents some relief. The measure calls for city staff to consider "reasonable limits" for operating hours, including late-night and early-morning restrictions, and required minimum distances between dumpsters and residences.

New rules could be in place by the end of the year.

Laura Kirby and Katie Wills co-founded Elysian Head Spa in November 2024 to optimize scalp and hair care. With four head spa rooms and a dedicated hair restoration suite, a team of cosmetologists and estheticians is bringing personalized treatments to Central Austin. 

How it started: Wills comes from a background in critical care, ICU nursing and work in a cardiology and heart failure clinic. After spending 15 years in traditional medicine, she was looking for a way to transition into a new role. Wills discovered head spas in 2024 during a trip to Japan and hoped to bring the experience back to Austin. 

Learn more: Kirby has a background in sales and always wanted to venture into the wellness and beauty industry. When Wills introduced her to the concept of head spas, the pair became business partners and friends, teaming up to open Elysian. 

The features: Treatments range from a complimentary hair growth consultation to one-hour and 90-minute head spa services and skin care treatments such as professional peels and facials. 

• 3408 West Ave., Austin

Harper Sage announced plans to close its flagship and online stores later this summer, owner and designer Megs Herman announced on social media. 

What we know: The Burnet Road location will be closing on May 30, according to an Instagram post, with the online store closing on June 30. Store-wide sales are now underway, with all items 30-60% off. 

The cause: The decision to cease operations was made after increased difficulties arose with “production costs, tariffs, supply chain disruptions, operational overhead and the pressure of operating a highly lean founder-led brand,” Herman said online. 

• 4803 Burnet Road, Austin