Waste management is a critical service that ensures the cleanliness, health, and environmental sustainability of our community. In Burlington, NC, the city’s robust trash pick up system provides residents with efficient and organized waste collection services that keep our neighborhoods clean and our environment protected.
References:
- Burlington Garbage, Recycling, and Yard Waste Official Page
- Burlington Garbage & Recycling Pickup Schedule
Trash Pick Up Schedule in Burlington, NC
The City of Burlington offers a comprehensive waste management system that covers regular garbage collection, recycling, yard waste, bulk waste, and special e-waste disposal.
Residential Trash Collection
Burlington provides residents with a standard 95-gallon black wheeled container for garbage collection. Key guidelines include:
- Collection occurs weekly on the same day
- Containers must be placed at the curb by 7:00 AM
- Must maintain 5 feet clearance on each side and 15 feet above the container
- Containers must be removed from the curb by 7:00 PM on collection day
Prohibited items in trash containers include:
- Yard waste
- Recyclables
- Liquids
- Construction materials
- Hazardous waste
- Batteries
- Tires
- Automobile parts
Recycling Services
Burlington implements a unique Red Week/Blue Week recycling schedule:
- Recycling collected every other week
- Follows the same day as regular garbage pickup
- Contracted with GFL Waste Industries, Inc.
Acceptable recyclable items include:
- Corrugated cardboard
- Newspapers and magazines
- Mixed paper
- Aluminum and steel cans
- Glass bottles and jars
- Plastic bottles (#1-#7)
Bulk & Large Item Pick Up
Bulk waste collection is provided free of charge weekly, including:
- Large limbs
- Appliances
- Furniture
- Mattresses
Bulk items should be placed at the curb on regular collection day and will be picked up within a week.
Yard Waste & Seasonal Services
Yard waste collection follows specific guidelines:
- Collected on regular garbage pickup day
- Includes grass clippings, shrub trimmings, garden debris
- Branches up to 6 inches in diameter
- Must be in containers (32-gallon maximum, 50 lbs limit)
- Loose leaves have seasonal collection rules
Holiday Trash Pick Up Changes
Some holidays may alter the regular collection schedule. Residents are advised to check the city’s official holiday pickup calendar for specific details.
E-Waste Disposal
The city offers free e-waste recycling twice annually at the Public Works Department, providing an environmentally responsible disposal method for electronics.
How to Find or Request Services
Residents can:
- Use interactive online collection schedule maps
- Call 336-222-5111 for specific inquiries
- Check the city’s official website for detailed information
Burlington’s trash pick up services demonstrate a comprehensive, organized approach to waste management. By following guidelines and staying informed, residents contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable community.
For the most current information, always refer to the official City of Burlington website or contact municipal services directly.
FAQ
Why hasn’t my garbage been picked up today?A garbage truck might skip your trash pickup for several reasons. Common reasons include improper sorting of waste, overweight or oversized containers, blocked access to the garbage due to parked vehicles or construction, hazardous materials in the garbage, or severe weather conditions.
What holidays is waste Pro closed?
- Holidays Observed in 2021.
- New Year’s Day – January 1st. Memorial Day – May 31st.
- *Independence Day – July 4th (Sunday)
- Labor Day – September 6th. …
- On these days: If you receive twice a week garbage pick-up, your service will be skipped. …
- *Service will run as normally scheduled Monday – Saturday.
How many garbage bags are allowed in Burlington?You may place up to 3 garbage bags or cans at the curb every other week on your collection day.
Are you supposed to tip your trash pickup?But in the United States most garbage collectors get paid well above the minimum wage, so no tip is expected.
https://www.burlingtonnc.gov/2226/Garbage-Recycling-Yard-Waste
Garbage and Yard Waste are collected Weekly. Recycling is scheduled every other week on a RED WEEK/BLUE WEEK schedule. Some Holidays require changes to the
https://www.burlingtonnc.gov/427/Garbage-Recycling-Pickup-Schedule
Click here to view or download the 2025 recycling and garbage pickup schedule. Find your garbage and recycling schedule.