Milwaukee, WI Trash & Recycling: Collection Schedule (2026)
Key Facts
- Collector
- Dept. of Public Works
- Container capacity
- min. 2 weeks' accumulation
- Multiunit opt-out (5+ units)
- weekly private removal required
- Cart return deadline
- 10 p.m. on service day
- First-offense forfeiture
- $500
Summary
Milwaukee's Department of Public Works collects mixed domestic solid waste from residences under city ordinance; owners of 5-plus-unit buildings who opt out of city pickup must arrange weekly private removal instead.
Mixed solid waste of domestic origin, unless contents are specifically excluded, shall be collected by the department, provided such waste is properly handled, contained, stored and located in conformance with the rules of the commissioner. ... Owners of multiunit dwellings with 5 or more units who choose not to have city removal of solid waste shall be required to provide for removal of solid waste on a weekly basis.
Full Breakdown
Milwaukee's Department of Public Works collects mixed domestic solid waste directly under Code of Ordinances § 79-2-1-a, so long as it's bagged, contained and stored per DPW rules. Owners of multiunit buildings with 5 or more units may opt out of city pickup, but § 79-2-1-c then requires them to arrange private removal at least weekly. Every dwelling must keep containers sized for at least two weeks' accumulation (§ 79-3-1), and where the cart system is used, tenants must haul carts back from the curb by 10 p.m. on the service day (§ 79-5-5).
Violations & Fines
Violating Chapter 79's solid waste provisions carries a $500 forfeiture, including court fees and costs, for the first offense and each subsequent offense; unpaid forfeitures can lead to imprisonment as provided by law (§ 79-16).
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the city pick up trash at single-family homes in Milwaukee?
What if my apartment building skips city trash pickup?
How long do I have to bring my cart back from the curb?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Milwaukee
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Collection Schedule in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Milwaukee County handle collection schedule.