Paterson, NJ Trash & Recycling: Bulk Item Disposal (2026)
Key Facts
- Scheduling
- Required before curbside placement
- Earliest set-out
- 6:00 p.m. day before pickup
- Cost
- Free for residents
- Drop-off ID
- Government ID proving residency
Summary
Paterson residents must schedule bulk item pickup with Public Works before curbside placement, and can't set items out before 6 p.m. the night before the scheduled date.
No person shall place bulk waste curbside without first scheduling for collection of said bulk waste with the Paterson Department of Public Works. No material intended for collection shall be placed or allowed to be placed on the sidewalk for collection prior to 6:00 p.m. local prevailing time of the day before such materials are scheduled to be collected.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: rev 4713536; v19 updated 2025-12-16; through 12-16-2025).
Full Breakdown
Chapter 427, Article VII of the Paterson City Code requires anyone disposing of bulk waste, oversized furniture, home furnishings, TVs and similar large household items, to schedule collection with the Paterson Department of Public Works before setting it curbside, and bars putting materials on the sidewalk before 6:00 p.m. the day before the scheduled pickup. Both scheduled curbside collection and drop-off at a designated municipal facility are free for residents, but anyone using a drop-off facility must show government-issued ID proving Paterson residency.
Violations & Fines
Placing bulk waste curbside without scheduling, or setting it out early, violates § 427-45 and draws a fine up to $2,000, up to 90 days' jail or 90 days' community service, per § 427-47.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I just put my old couch at the curb in Paterson?
Is there a fee for bulk waste pickup?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Paterson
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