City services can fly under the radar, but there are a few free and low-cost resources that every Nashville resident should keep in their back pocket.

Arts + culture

NPL perks
When you sign up for a free library card, you're going beyond the books. From the Community Passport program and Metro Arts Lending Library, to the Seed Exchange and Library of Things, these resources will save you time and money.

Civic

Bulk item removal
Davidson County residents can contact the sheriff's office to schedule free large-item pickups — you just have to get everything to the curb by 6:30 a.m.

Environment

Green parking permit
Owners of fuel-efficient, hybrid, and electric vehicles can apply for an annual $10 permit with the Davidson County Clerk's office to receive free parking at metered spaces within the Downtown Central Business Improvement District.

Rain barrel sale
Metro Water Services sells 50-gallon rain barrels at a discounted rate every spring while supplies last to aid homeowners in watering lawns, gardens, and house plants.

Residential composting
Similarly, Davidson County residents can purchase $50 backyard compost bins at Metro's Omohundro Convenience Center. Food waste can then be dropped by any convenience center at no additional cost.

Health

Financial counseling
A partnership between the mayor's office and United Way of Greater Nashville produced the Nashville Financial Empowerment Center. The center provides Davidson County residents with free financial counseling to help increase savings, lower debt, and improve credit scores.

Parks and Recreation classes
Get active (or creative) in new ways via Metro Parks' low-cost classes, such as dancing, ice skating, and theater.

Familiar with the above? You can find 400+ additional services in this one-stop-shop portal — everything from adult sports leagues and public Wi-Fi locations to film permit applications and soil fertility testing.