DPW provides weekly trash and recycling collection for residential properties in DC. Trash is collected weekly and recycling every other week on designated days. All items must be in DPW-issued containers and placed at the curb during designated hours.
DPW provides trash collection once per week and recycling collection every other week for single-family homes and small residential buildings. Large apartment buildings use private haulers. Trash must be in DPW-issued SuperCans (96-gallon carts) and placed at the curb by 6:30 PM the evening before or 6:30 AM on collection day. Bulk items (furniture, mattresses, large appliances) require scheduling through 311 or DPW's online portal. Yard waste is collected separately. Hazardous waste, electronics, and tires are not accepted in regular collection and must be taken to designated drop-off events or facilities.
Improper set-out (wrong day, no container, contaminated recycling) can result in non-collection and fines. Illegal dumping carries fines of $500 to $5,000.
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See how Washington's pickup rules & schedules rules stack up against other locations.
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