Effective waste management is crucial for maintaining clean, healthy communities, and Tacoma residents rely on a comprehensive trash pick up system that ensures efficient and environmentally responsible disposal. The City of Tacoma’s Solid Waste Management provides residents with a robust collection service designed to meet diverse waste management needs.
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Trash Pick Up Schedule in Tacoma
Tacoma has implemented an innovative two-week collection cycle that alternates between garbage and recycling/food waste. This approach helps residents manage their waste more efficiently and supports environmental sustainability.
Residential Trash Collection
All Tacoma residents are required to use the city’s Solid Waste services. The collection fees are structured based on:
- The amount of garbage disposed
- Size of the garbage container
Residents can choose from various container sizes to match their household needs. For those preferring alternative disposal methods, self-hauling to the Tacoma Recovery & Transfer Center is also an option.
Recycling Services
While recycling is not mandatory for businesses, the city strongly recommends it. Commercial entities and multifamily residences can sign up for recycling services alongside their regular trash pick up.
Bulk & Large Item Pick Up
The city has specific guidelines for items not accepted in regular curbside garbage collection:
- Furniture
- Lumber
- Appliances
- Concrete
- Hazardous materials
Residents can use the self-haul option at the Tacoma Recovery & Transfer Center for these items, with fees applicable based on the type and volume of waste.
Yard Waste & Seasonal Services
The Tacoma Recovery & Transfer Center offers free yard waste recycling. Residents can drop off yard waste and take advantage of expanded recycling services at the Tacoma Recycle Center.
Holiday Trash Pick Up Changes
During major holidays, trash pick up schedules are adjusted. No collection occurs on:
- New Year’s Day
- Fourth of July
- Thanksgiving Day
- Christmas Day
If your regular pick up falls on or after these holidays, collection will be delayed by one day.
How to Find or Request Services
Residents can access trash pick up services through multiple channels:
- Phone: (253) 502-2100
- Email: [email protected]
- Online bill payment: MyTPU
- Location: 3510 S. Mullen Street, Tacoma, WA 98409
New Downtown Compactor Service
Starting September 1, 2025, Tacoma is transitioning two downtown areas to centralized compactor systems. Businesses and residents in the designated core area will use shared compactors instead of curbside bins.
Tacoma’s trash pick up services offer residents a comprehensive, environmentally conscious waste management system. By providing flexible options, clear guidelines, and multiple service channels, the city ensures efficient and responsible waste disposal for all its residents.
For the most up-to-date information, always check the official City of Tacoma website or contact Solid Waste Management directly.
FAQ
Can non-residents use Tacoma dump?Only Tacoma residents can use the transfer station for non-commercial use. You also need to have an active solid waste residential collection account with the city of Tacoma. Bring your driver’s license or other document as proof that you are a Tacoma resident before you leave for the dump.
Why was trash not 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.
Who picks up garbage in Tacoma?The City of Tacoma provides curbside garbage, recycling, and food and yard waste collection for residential, multifamily, and commercial business customers. Self-haul options to the Tacoma Recovery & Transfer Center is also available for a fee.
How to get rid of lots of trash at once?Hire the services of a trash removal company. [Company] is willing and able to haul your trash, no matter how big the load.
In Tacoma, garbage and recycling are collected every other week, alternating with food/yard waste. To view your collection schedule, click “My Schedule” below.
The City of Tacoma provides curbside garbage, recycling, and food and yard waste collection for residential, multifamily, and commercial business customers.