Bethlehem, PA Trash & Recycling: Bulk Item Disposal (2026)

Because Bethlehem does not run a citywide trash contract, the City does not operate a bulk-pickup program. Bulky items - sofas, mattresses, box springs, dressers, large appliances, carpet rolls - must be scheduled directly with the licensed private hauler that the property owner has retained under §1162.05(a). Each hauler sets its own rules and rates: Symons Sanitation, for example, asks customers to call during business hours at least 24 hours before pickup day to schedule extra items, and charges vary depending on weight, volume, and item type (customers may be asked for a photo to get an accurate quote). Republic Services and Waste Management offer bulk pickup at additional cost. Roll-off containers (large dumpsters) for moves, renovations, or estate cleanouts are placed by a hauler under §1162.01 definition and must be tarped during transport under §1162.06(c). The City supplements private bulk pickup through two drop-off facilities: (1) the Theis/Cornfeld Recycling Center at 635 Illick's Mill Road, Bethlehem 18017, which accepts source-separated recyclables, electronics, and certain household items from City residents, and (2) the Bethlehem Yard Waste Facility at 1480 Schoenersville Road, Bethlehem 18018, which accepts leaves, branches (no larger than 4 inches in diameter and 6 feet in length), small brush, hedge trimmings, and garden plant residue from City residents only. Refrigerators, freezers, dehumidifiers, and air conditioners containing Freon (CFC refrigerant) must be professionally evacuated under EPA Section 608 (40 CFR Part 82) by a licensed HVAC contractor and bear a refrigerant-removal tag before any hauler will accept them - this is federal EPA law, not a Bethlehem-specific rule. Burning bulk materials (including yard waste) on premises is prohibited by §1162.04(e).