Here’s what Phoenix residents need to know about new bulk trash pickup system

PHOENIX – The city of Phoenix bulk trash collection system is entering a new phase.

Instead of picking up bulk trash on four set dates per region each year, the city’s Public Works Department is switching to an appointment-based system.

The on-demand model gives residents more flexibility, freeing them from a preset calendar.

The city announced the plan in May and started taking appointments on Aug. 30.

Monday will be the first day for the scheduled collections.

Here’s everything you need to know about the new Phoenix bulk trash system:

How can Phoenix bulk trash pickups be scheduled?

Each Phoenix household is eligible for one pickup through the end of 2024. Starting in 2025, each household can schedule up to four pickups per year.

Residents can set appointments through an online portal or by calling 602-262-6251.

Appointments can be booked as early as four weeks out and must be made a minimum of three business days in advance.

What is bulk trash?

Refuse that is too large for garbage or recycling bins is considered bulk trash.

Things like furniture, small appliances, toilets and large amounts of vegetation qualify.

Grass, leaves, weeds, twigs and hedge clippings should be secured in bags before being placed for pickup.

What are the limits on the Phoenix bulk trash program?

Dates surrounding Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day are blocked out to eliminate unsightly trash piles during those festive times.

Residents should not place their bulk trash items out until their appointment is set and it’s within seven days of the pickup date. The items should in place by 5:30 a.m. the day of the appointment, because pickups begin at 6 a.m.

The refuse shouldn’t cover more than 10 cubic yards, about the size of an SUV.

Household hazardous waste — including antifreeze, pool chemicals, oil, batteries and paint – is not allowed, but the city has a separate disposal system for those items.

Tires and appliances that use refrigerants are also prohibited.

Here’s a lists of other restricted items, pre the Phoenix bulk trash web page:

• Materials such as bricks, concrete, dirt, rocks, asphalt and roofing shingles/tiles.
• Construction or demolition materials in excess of 25 pounds or over 4 feet long.
• Metal or car parts in excess of 20 pounds or over 4 feet long.
• Glass such as windows, shower doors, patio doors, mirrors, fluorescent tubes, etc.
• Tree trunks or stumps longer than 4 feet and bigger than 12 inches in diameter.

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