Keeping our city clean and organized requires efficient waste management. The City of Philadelphia has developed comprehensive trash pickup services to help residents dispose of large household items responsibly, reducing illegal dumping and maintaining neighborhood cleanliness. This guide will walk you through Philadelphia’s large trash pickup options and how to take advantage of these essential city services.
References:
Trash Pick Up Schedule in Philadelphia
Residential Trash Collection
The Department of Sanitation offers a special collection service for large or bulky household items that aren’t part of regular trash collection. This service is available for:
- Single-family homes
- Multi-family dwellings with up to six units
Larger apartment buildings, condominiums, and commercial properties are not eligible and must use private haulers.
Eligible Large Item Pickup
Residents can schedule pickup for the following items:
- Large appliances (refrigerators with doors removed)
- Air conditioners
- Hot water heaters
- Household furniture
- Large toys
- Flat-screen TVs
- Passenger car tires (4 tires count as one bulk item)
How to Schedule Pickup
- Schedule an appointment online or by calling 311
- Appointments are limited and scheduled on a first-come, first-serve basis
- You can schedule up to four items per appointment
Bulk & Large Item Collection Details
Important Collection Guidelines
- Place items at your regular collection point (curbside or rear driveway)
- Set out items the evening before pickup
- Label items with your provided pickup code
- Ensure items are accessible by 7:00 a.m. on pickup day
What’s Not Collected
The city will not pick up:
- Household trash
- Mattresses
- Hazardous materials
- Auto parts
- Construction debris
Additional Disposal Options
Residents can also:
- Bring metal items to one of six Sanitation Convenience Centers
- Continue using regular trash collection (up to two large non-metal items)
Holiday and Seasonal Considerations
The Department of Sanitation adjusts pickup times seasonally:
- Fall/Winter: Set out items after 5:00 p.m.
- Spring/Summer: Set out items after 7:00 p.m.
Finding and Requesting Services
- Visit www.phila.gov/sanitation
- Call 311
- Schedule online through the Department of Sanitation’s website
Philadelphia’s large trash pickup service provides residents with a convenient, environmentally responsible way to dispose of bulky items. By following these guidelines, you can help keep our city clean and reduce illegal dumping.
For the most up-to-date information, always check the official City of Philadelphia website or contact 311 directly.
FAQ
Does Philadelphia have bulk trash pickup?The Department of Sanitation offers a special collection service to pick up large or bulky household items that aren’t picked up during regular trash …
Will Philadelphia trash take a mattress?Sanitation will continue to collect up to two (2) large items per household on regularly scheduled trash collection days, including mattresses wrapped in …
How to get rid of a large trash can?Throw your trash can away by placing it upside down to demonstrate that it’s empty and clearly labeling it for pick up. Or, instead of throwing it away, recycle your trash can at a local recycling facility or transform it into a storage or compost bin.
https://www.phila.gov/services/trash-recycling-city-upkeep/schedule-trash-collection-for-bulky-household-items/
Make an appointment to get bulk collection for refrigerators, air conditioners, tires, and other large household items.
https://www.phila.gov/2024-09-23-city-of-philadelphia-residential-bulk-collection-program/
Philadelphia residents can schedule bulk item pickups for up to four (4) items per appointment. The service is available to single-family homes