Trash & Recycling in Albuquerque, NM (2026)
4 verified trash & recycling rules for Albuquerque, New Mexico, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Pickup Rules & Schedules
Albuquerque provides curbside trash, recycling, and green waste collection through the Solid Waste Management Department. Residential collection is on a weekly schedule with assigned collection days by neighborhood. The city uses an automated cart system requiring residents to use city-issued containers.
Albuquerque Trash Pickup Schedules & Rules
Some RestrictionsBin Placement Rules
Albuquerque's Solid Waste Management Department requires specific cart placement for automated collection. Carts must be at the curb by 7:00 AM on collection day, placed with handles facing the house, and positioned at least 3 feet from any obstacles. Carts must be retrieved by the end of the collection day.
Albuquerque Trash Bin Placement Rules
Some RestrictionsBulk Item Disposal
Albuquerque offers bulky item collection by appointment through the Solid Waste Management Department. Residents can schedule free pickup of large items that do not fit in standard carts. The city also operates convenience centers for self-drop-off of large items, yard waste, and recyclables.
Albuquerque Bulk Item Disposal & Pickup
Some RestrictionsRecycling Requirements
Albuquerque provides curbside single-stream recycling through the Solid Waste Management Department. Recycling is collected every other week in yellow-lidded carts. The city accepts paper, cardboard, plastic bottles and containers, metal cans, and glass in a single-stream system. Contamination of recycling carts is a significant concern.
Albuquerque Mandatory Recycling Requirements
Some RestrictionsLooking for Bernalillo County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Albuquerque city rules.
Trash & Recycling in Bernalillo County →