Heads up, Phoenix! Big changes to bulk trash collection start this week

PHOENIX (AZFamily) — The city of Phoenix Public Works Department is reminding utility customers that bulk trash pickups are now handled by appointment only.

City officials say appointments must be made at least three business days ahead and can be booked as early as a month in advance. However, many neighborhoods already have pre-set community collection times.

It’s a significant change from the past, when crews would visit Phoenix neighborhoods quarterly to pick up old furniture, household fixtures, and all kinds of bulky trash placed on the curb by homeowners to be removed.

“With our new program, we’re hoping that it’ll be a lot more convenient for customers,” Gisella Gonzalez, a public works supervisor for the city, told Arizona’s Family earlier this year.

Each household can schedule one trash collection for the remainder of the year. Starting in 2025, each household can choose up to four pickups per calendar year.

City of Phoenix says to remember to keep these tips in mind:

• Make an appointment before setting out your bulk items
• Sweep or rake the area after collection, if necessary
• Securely bag and tie all grass, leaves, weeds, twigs and hedge clippings before placing them out for bulk trash
• Cut tree trimmings down to less than 12″ in diameter and 4′ in length

The changes come nearly two years after a reported hiring shortage prompted delays in pickup, causing massive amounts of trash to build up along streets. The issue even caused an uproar at city hall when council members grilled the public works head over weekslong delays in several neighborhoods.

Residents interested in scheduling an appointment can do so through the city’s website or by calling 602-262-6251.

Households are allowed up to 10 cubic yards of trash per collection. Residents cannot leave items out more than seven days ahead of their scheduled pickup date.

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