Pickup Rules & Schedules: Mesa vs Tempe
How do pickup rules & schedules rules compare between Mesa, AZ and Tempe, AZ?
Mesa and Tempe have similar restriction levels.
Mesa, AZ
Maricopa County
Mesa provides weekly curbside solid waste and recycling collection to residential properties through the city's Solid Waste Management division. Residents receive city-issued carts for trash, recycling, and green waste. Collection occurs on assigned days by neighborhood, and residents must place carts at the curb by 5:00 AM on their collection day. The city observes a modified schedule on certain holidays.
View full Mesa rules →Tempe, AZ
Maricopa County
Tempe provides weekly curbside collection for trash, recycling, and green waste. Collection is performed using automated trucks. Bins must be placed correctly at the curb by 5 AM. The city assigns collection days by neighborhood. Holiday schedules may affect pickup days. Contaminated recycling bins may be rejected.
View full Tempe rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Mesa | Tempe |
|---|---|---|
| Service Provider | City of Mesa Solid Waste Management | - |
| Collection Frequency | Weekly for trash, recycling, and green waste | - |
| Cart Placement | Curbside by 5:00 AM on collection day | - |
| Cart Types | Trash (black), recycling (blue), green waste (green) | - |
| Holiday Schedule | Modified schedule on major holidays | - |
| Frequency | - | Weekly curbside collection |
| Services | - | Trash, recycling, green waste same day |
| Bin Placement | - | By 5:00 AM, lids closed, handles toward house |
| Recycling | - | Contaminated bins may be rejected |
| Green Waste | - | Yard trimmings, branches under 4 ft |
| Schedule | - | By neighborhood, check city website |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Mesa FAQ
What days does Mesa collect trash?
Collection days vary by neighborhood. You can look up your specific collection day on the City of Mesa Solid Waste website or call 480-644-2221. Carts must be placed at the curb by 5:00 AM on your scheduled day.
How many trash carts can I have?
Each Mesa residence receives one trash cart, one recycling cart, and one green waste cart. Additional or larger carts may be available for an extra monthly fee through the Solid Waste Management division.
Tempe FAQ
What day is trash pickup in my Tempe neighborhood?
Collection days are assigned by neighborhood. Check the city website or mobile app with your address for your specific schedule.
What goes in the recycling bin?
Paper, cardboard, plastic bottles/containers, glass, and metal cans. No plastic bags, food waste, or Styrofoam. Check Tempe's recycling guide.
What if my bin wasn't collected?
If your bin was properly placed and not contaminated, report the missed pickup to Tempe's solid waste division for a return trip.
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