Navigating Trash and Recycling Pickup in Austin

Understanding when trash and recycling are collected in Austin is key to proper storage, timely rollout, and smooth city services. This comprehensive guide covers everything Austin residents need to know about trash and recycling schedules, including how to find your designated pickup day.

Overview of Trash & Recycling Collection

• Trash and recycling collection in Austin is handled by Austin Resource Recovery, a city department.
• Services include trash, recycling, composting, and bulk/brush pickup.
• Pickup days are assigned by location and collection route.

Finding Your Trash & Recycling Schedule

You can find your personalized collection schedule in several ways:

• My Schedule Tool – Enter your address at My Collection Schedule to view or download your calendar.

• Austin Recycles App – Download the app on your Apple or Android device to access your schedule.

• Call 311 – Call the city’s 311 information line for assistance with your schedule.

• Collection Day Look Up – Use the Collection Schedule Lookup tool by address.

Setting Out Trash & Recycling

• Place carts curbside by 6:30AM on your pickup day.
• Carts should be 3 feet apart and 18 inches from obstructions.
• Wheels should face the house, not the street.
• Make sure lids are closed tightly.

Holiday Collection Schedules

If your normal pickup day falls on or after Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, or New Year’s Day, pickup slides to one day later that week.

For example:

• Monday pickup slides to Tuesday
• Wednesday pickup slides to Thursday

Regular schedule resumes the following week.

Handling Missed Pickups

If your trash or recycling is not collected on your scheduled pickup day:

• Leave carts out for pickup later that week.
• Confirm carts are accessible and not blocked.
• Report missed pickups using the Austin Recycles App.

Bulk Item Collection

• Bulk items like furniture are collected monthly.
• Check your bulk pickup day on your collection calendar.
• Review bulk item guidelines on the Austin Resource Recovery website.

Brush and Yard Waste

• Brush and yard trimmings are collected every other week.
• Check your brush pickup day on your collection calendar.
• Review requirements for brush bundles.

Recycling Right

• See the Recycling Do’s and Don’ts guide on the website.
• Recycle only clean, empty, and dry items.
• Do not bag recyclables. Place loose in cart.

Food Scrap Composting

Austin offers city-provided composting:

• Place food scraps in your green organics cart.
• Compost coffee grounds, eggshells, vegetables, bones and more.
• Do not include compostable plastics.

Apartments & Condos

If you live in a multifamily residence:

• Search schedules without your unit number.
• For example, 123 Main St., not 123A Main St.
• Report issues through the Austin Recycles App.

Contamination Fees

Contaminating your recycling or trash with incorrect items may incur fees. Avoid contamination to prevent charges.

Contact Information

Contact Austin Resource Recovery with any questions:

• Visit AustinTexas.gov/ARL
• Call 311 or 512-974-2000
• Email [email protected]
• Download Austin Recycles App

Follow your collection schedule, prepare materials properly, and reach out to the city with any pickup issues. Consistent compliance will help Austin’s waste and recycling programs run smoothly.