Trash and Recycling Collection in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

The City of Milwaukee provides weekly garbage collection and biweekly recycling collection to over 200,000 households. This article provides an overview of collection schedules, guidelines, and key information for Milwaukee residents and businesses regarding trash and recycling services.

Collection Days

• Garbage is collected weekly on the same day each week.
• Recycling is collected every other week on the same day.

Check the collection schedule lookup and enter your address to find your designated collection day.

Set materials out by 7 AM on your pickup day. Collection occurs between 7 AM – 6 PM.

Garbage Cart Guidelines

• Households are provided with a brown 96-gallon cart for garbage.
• Garbage must be bagged inside carts. Do not place loose trash in carts.
• Completely close lids on carts. Open lids will not be collected.
• Carts must be 3 feet from other objects and have a clear path accessible to crews.
• Carts must be returned to proper storage location by 10 PM after collection.

Recycling Cart Guidelines

• Households are provided with a blue 64-gallon cart for recycling.
• Do NOT bag recyclables. Place loose items directly into cart.
• Make sure cart lid is completely closed.
• Carts must be returned to proper storage after collection.

Accepted Recyclables

Milwaukee accepts the following common household items for recycling:

• Paper, cardboard, cartons
• Plastic containers #1-#7
• Glass bottles and jars
• Aluminum cans, pans, foil
• Steel, tin cans
• Empty aerosol cans

Check the recycling guide for full details.

Bulk Item Collection

Large household items like furniture and appliances can be scheduled for special bulk collection on your normal garbage day. Contact the Department of Public Works 24 hours in advance to schedule pickups.

Fees, weight limits, and restrictions apply. Mattresses, appliances, and electronics require prepaid disposal stickers.

Learn more about bulk item disposal.

Household Hazardous Waste

Hazardous waste like chemicals, batteries, lightbulbs, and oils cannot be disposed of in regular trash. Milwaukee residents can safely dispose of these items at the Household Hazardous Waste site for free.

Holiday Schedule Changes

If your normal collection day falls on a major holiday, pickup will be delayed by one day that week.

Major holidays that affect service are:

• New Year’s Day
• Memorial Day
• Independence Day
• Labor Day
• Thanksgiving Day
• Christmas Day

Check the yearly collection schedule for impacted dates.

Missed Pickups

Report any missed garbage or recycling pickups by the end of the next business day:

• Online: Sanitation service request
• Phone: (414) 286-CITY

Winter Collection

During winter, garbage collection typically continues as normal. Recycling may be temporarily suspended during periods of heavy snow. Continue setting out recycling carts during your normal pickup weeks and crews will collect materials when possible.

Snow and ice control policies may impact collection operations as well. Check for updates during winter storms.

Contact Information

Milwaukee Department of Public Works: (414) 286-CITY

By following Milwaukee’s guidelines, residents can ensure their garbage and recycling is collected on schedule. Check the DPW website for the most up-to-date information.