Phoenix Big Trash Pickup: What You Need to Know
The City of Phoenix provides a big trash pickup service, also known as bulk trash collection, to residents to dispose of large items that don’t fit in regular trash containers. This service is scheduled and varies depending on your location within the city. Understanding the schedule, accepted items, and preparation guidelines is crucial for a smooth and efficient pickup.
Understanding Phoenix’s Bulk Trash Collection Service
Phoenix’s big trash pickup is designed to handle items that are too large or heavy for regular trash bins. This includes furniture, appliances (without refrigerants), yard waste, and other bulky materials. The city is divided into different collection areas, each with its own scheduled pickup week.
Finding Your Schedule
Knowing your specific collection schedule is the first step. The city provides an online tool where you can enter your address and find your next scheduled pickup date. Visit the city of phoenix website, find the Public Works page, and use the map tool on that page to find your zone and thus your dates.
Accepted Items
While the service is for “big trash,” there are limitations on what can be collected. Generally accepted items include:
- Furniture (couches, tables, chairs)
- Appliances (without refrigerants – refrigerators and air conditioners need special handling)
- Yard waste (branches, leaves, grass clippings – must be bundled or bagged)
- Large boxes (flattened)
- Carpet and padding (rolled and tied)
Prohibited Items
Certain items are not accepted during bulk trash pickup due to safety or environmental concerns. These include:
- Hazardous waste (paint, chemicals, batteries) – these must be taken to a special collection facility. See details on the Household Hazardous Waste definition.
- Construction debris (bricks, concrete, roofing materials)
- Tires
- Refrigerators and air conditioners (due to refrigerants)
- Loose piles of small debris (must be contained)
Preparation Guidelines
Proper preparation of your bulk trash is essential for efficient collection. The city has specific guidelines for how items should be placed and prepared:
- Place items at the curb or alley, away from obstructions like parked cars, mailboxes, and utility poles.
- Bundled branches should be no longer than 4 feet in length.
- Bagged yard waste prevents debris from scattering.
- Flatten boxes to save space.
- Do not overload piles – if too large, it may not be collected.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I miss my scheduled pickup?
If you miss your pickup, you will need to wait until the next scheduled date for your area. Alternatively, you can dispose of your items at a city transfer station for a fee.
Can I schedule a special pickup outside of my regular schedule?
The City of Phoenix generally does not offer individual special pickups outside of the scheduled service. You can explore hiring a private waste removal company for immediate removal needs.
What do I do with appliances containing refrigerants?
Appliances containing refrigerants (refrigerators, air conditioners) require special handling. Contact a certified technician to properly remove the refrigerant before disposal. Check with the city for information on refrigerant recycling programs.
Is there a limit to the amount of bulk trash I can put out?
While there’s no specific weight limit, the city asks residents to be mindful of the volume. Excessively large piles may not be collected. Contact the city if you have an unusually large amount of material.
What happens to the bulk trash after it’s collected?
The collected bulk trash is typically taken to a transfer station where it is sorted. Recyclable materials are separated, and the remaining waste is disposed of at a landfill.
Summary
Phoenix’s big trash pickup is a valuable service for residents needing to dispose of bulky items. By understanding the schedule, accepted items, preparation guidelines, and prohibited materials, you can ensure a smooth and responsible disposal process. Regularly check the City of Phoenix website for any updates or changes to the program.
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