Efficient waste management is crucial for maintaining clean, healthy urban environments. For District of Columbia residents, the Department of Public Works (DPW) provides comprehensive bulk trash pickup services to help keep neighborhoods clean and reduce illegal dumping.
References:
- DC Department of Public Works Bulk Trash Collection
- Zero Waste DC Residential Collection Information
Trash Pick Up Schedule in Washington DC
The DC Department of Public Works offers bulk trash collection services for residential households, specifically targeting single-family homes and residential buildings with three or fewer living units. Apartment buildings with four or more units must arrange private waste removal services.
Residential Trash Collection Guidelines
Bulk Item Collection Rules
- Maximum of seven items per appointment
- Appointment required through DC 311 (call or online)
- Items must be placed out between 6:30 pm the night before and 6:00 am on collection day
Acceptable Bulk Items
Residents can schedule pickup for:
- Household furniture
- Major appliances (refrigerators with doors removed)
- Air conditioners
- Mattresses and box springs (must be wrapped in plastic)
- Large toys
- Hot water heaters
- Rugs (must be rolled and tied)
Unacceptable Bulk Items
The following items are NOT accepted for bulk collection:
- Construction materials
- Bricks and concrete
- Dirt
- Electronics
- Hazardous waste
- Tires
- Tree stumps
- Regular household trash
Special Disposal Options
Fort Totten Transfer Station
Residents can drop off bulk items without an appointment:
- Tuesday – Friday: 10 am – 2 pm
- Saturday: 7 am – 2 pm
- Proof of DC residency required
Special Waste Collection Events
DC offers periodic collection events for:
- Household hazardous waste
- Electronics
- Document shredding
Specialty Item Guidelines
Toilet Disposal
- Must be wrapped securely in plastic
- Sealed with tape or ties
- Placed at curb during designated time
Medicine and Sharp Disposal
- Do not flush medicines
- Use puncture-resistant containers
- Mix expired medicines with dirt or cat litter
- Label containers as “BIOHAZARD”
How to Request Bulk Trash Pickup
- Call DC 311
- Visit 311.dc.gov
- Schedule an appointment
- Prepare items according to guidelines
- Place items out at specified times
Important Considerations
- Unauthorized placement of bulk items can result in sanitation violation tickets
- Commercial properties must use private waste services
- Always verify current guidelines through official DC channels
DC’s bulk trash pickup services provide residents with convenient, structured waste disposal options. By following guidelines and using available resources, residents can contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable urban environment.
For the most up-to-date information, always check the official DC Department of Public Works website or contact DC 311.
FAQ
How do I schedule bulk pickup in DC?Making a Bulk Collection Appointment
Call 311, or visit 311.dc.gov, to set up an appointment before putting your bulk items out for collection. Remember, NO MORE THAN SEVEN ITEMS will be collected per appointment.
What is the number for free bulk trash pickup in DC?Request Bulk Pickup
Do not dump illegally! Call 311 or visit 311.dc.gov to set up a bulk trash collection appointment.
What is considered bulk pick up?What’s considered bulky trash? Accepted materials vary by location, but common bulky, large or heavy items include: Mattress & Box Springs. Bed Frames.
How to get rid of a bunch of garbage?
- Local Recycling Centers : Some recycling centers accept household waste.
- Community Clean-Up Events : Look for local community clean-up days or events where residents can dispose of waste.
- Ask Neighbors or Friends
- Public Trash Bins
- Donation
- Local Disposal Services
- Break Down Items
- Check with Local Authorities
https://dpw.dc.gov/service/bulk-trash-collection-0
The Department of Public Works (DPW) collects large, bulky items by appointment from residential households that receive DPW trash collection services.
https://zerowaste.dc.gov/page/residential-collection-information-requests
Call 311 or visit 311.dc.gov to set up a bulk trash collection appointment. Place your bulk items out no earlier than 6:30 pm the day before or no later than 6