Trash and Recycling Pickup in Savannah, Georgia

Savannah is the oldest and fourth-largest city in Georgia, known for its historic architecture, coastal charm, and natural beauty. With over 145,000 residents, providing reliable trash and recycling services is key to keeping the city clean and livable. This guide covers everything Savannah residents and visitors need to know about trash and recycling pickup schedules, policies, and resources.

Trash and Recycling Collection Schedule

• Trash is collected once per week on a designated weekday in Savannah neighborhoods.

• Recycling is collected every other week on the opposite weekday from trash.

• Schedules are determined by location – refer to the collection map to find your designated pickup days.

• Standard collection times are 7AM to 7PM. Carts must be curbside by 7AM on pickup days.

• Schedules shift for holidays – pickup is delayed by one day if a holiday falls on your collection day.

Holidays That Delay Service

Savannah observes the following holidays which delay trash and recycling pickup by one day:

• New Year’s Day
• Martin Luther King Jr. Day
• Presidents’ Day
• Memorial Day
• Independence Day
• Labor Day
• Veterans Day
• Thanksgiving Day
• Christmas Day

Preparing Trash and Recycling for Pickup

To ensure proper collection:

• All household trash must be bagged and placed in city-issued carts. Do not overfill.

• Carts must be placed within 3 feet of the curb by 7AM on pickup days.

• Remove carts from the curb by 7PM after collection.

• Recycling must be clean and placed loosely in city recycling carts – no bagged material.

• Make sure cart lids are closed to prevent trash from blowing out.

Bulk Item and Yard Waste Collection

• Bulk items like furniture can be scheduled for pickup on your second collection day of the week. Contact the city to schedule.

• Yard waste must be in biodegradable bags placed beside carts for weekly pickup. 15 bag limit per week.

• Fees apply for excess yard waste or improper preparation like using plastic bags.

• Piled branches and limbs that take over 5 minutes to collect will incur fees.

Garbage Cart Requests and Repairs

• Report damaged carts that need repair or request additional carts by contacting the city’s 311 service line.

• Only one garbage cart is provided per residence, but additional recycling carts can be requested.

• Carts must remain with the property if you move.

Recycling Program and Compliance

• Recycling participation is mandatory for all households in Savannah per city ordinance.

• Accepted recyclables include paper, cardboard, aluminum/steel cans, glass bottles, and plastic containers.

• Check the city’s recycling guide for a full list of accepted materials.

• Violations of recycling ordinances can result in fines up to $1,000.

• To report recycling non-compliance, contact the city’s sanitation department.

Special Collection Services

• Backdoor collection is available for Savannah residents over 65 with no other able-bodied occupants. Carts will be collected from and returned to the backdoor weekly.

• Contact the city’s 311 line for information on arranging special collections.

Key Contacts and Resources

Savannah Sanitation Department

(912) 651-6582

For schedule and program info, cart issues, special pickups.

Savannah 311 Service Line

Dial 311 or (912) 651-6565

For general questions, service requests, reporting issues.

Collection Map

savannahga.gov/collectionmap

To find your designated pickup days.

Recycling Guide

savannahga.gov/recycling

Details on Savannah’s recycling program and accepted materials.

By understanding the schedules, policies, and procedures around trash and recycling, Savannah residents and visitors can help keep the city clean and sustainable for all.