Trash and Recycling Collection Schedule in Schenectady, New York

The City of Schenectady provides trash and recycling collection services for residents in Schenectady, NY. The city has specific collection days for 5 zones or districts. This article provides an overview of Schenectady’s trash and recycling pickup schedule, including collection days, accepted materials, and key information for residents to follow proper disposal and recycling guidelines.

Collection Days

Schenectady is divided into 5 waste collection districts. Each district has assigned collection days:

• District 1: Monday & Thursday
• District 2: Tuesday & Friday
• District 3: Monday & Thursday
• District 4: Tuesday & Friday
• District 5: Wednesday

During holidays, the pickup schedule may change. Check the collection calendar for adjusted dates.

Trash Collection

• Trash must be bagged and placed in cans no larger than 40 gallons.
• Make sure lids are closed and trash is not packed too tightly.
• Do not place bags outside of cans.
• There is no limit on the number of trash bags/cans permitted.
• Trash should be placed curbside by 6:15 AM on collection days.

Accepted trash items:

• All non-recyclable household waste
• Food waste
• Paper food containers
• Plastic utensils and bags
• Foam cups and containers
• Diapers

Recycling Collection

• Schenectady offers single-stream recycling – all materials can be mixed together.
• Use bins up to 40 gallons labeled with recycling stickers on both sides. Get free stickers at City Hall.
• Do not bag recyclables – place loose in bins.
• Rinse food residue but leave labels.

Accepted recycling:

• Plastic containers (#1-7)
• Glass bottles/jars
• Aluminum cans
• Clean aluminum foil and pans
• Milk and juice cartons
• Paperboard (cereal and tissue boxes)
• Junk mail, magazines, newspapers
• Paper bags

Do not include:

• Plastic bags, wrap or film
• Foam products
• Needles or sharp objects
• Yard waste or food waste
• Electronics

Yard Waste Collection

• Yard waste collection runs April 3 to December 1.
• Grass clippings, leaves, twigs etc. must be placed in 30 gallon biodegradable paper bags.
• Branches under 3 inches diameter must be bundled in 4-foot lengths and tied.

Accepted yard waste:

• Leaves, grass, garden waste
• Brush and branches
• Logs

Christmas Tree Collection

• Christmas trees are collected curbside December 27 to January 27.
• Trees over 4 feet tall must be cut in half.
• Remove all decorations, lights, and tree stands.

Bulk Item Collection

• Bulk items like furniture and appliances are accepted at the Schenectady Transfer Station.
• Freon must be removed from appliances by a certified technician.
• Car parts, tires, construction debris also go to the Transfer Station. Fees apply.

Holiday Schedule

Trash pickup is delayed by one day after these holidays:

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

If the holiday falls on a weekend, no delay. Check the collection calendar for adjusted dates.

Unacceptable & Hazardous Waste

Do not place these items curbside:

• Medical waste (needles, lancets) – Dispose through Safe Sharp Program
• Hazardous chemicals – Bring to Household Hazardous Waste Collection
• Car parts, tires
• Construction debris
• Electronics and appliances

Missed Pickups

If trash or recycling is not collected on the scheduled day, report it within 24 hours by:

• Phone: 518-382-5144
• Email: [email protected]

Provide address and specify materials not collected. The hauler will return within 48 hours.

Resources

• Collection Schedule Lookups – Find your district and collection calendar.

• Recycling Guide – Detailed list of accepted and non-accepted materials.

• Waste Guidelines – Overview of trash and recycling program, collection rules, and disposal options.

• Transfer Station – For bulk items, construction debris disposal.

Properly following Schenectady’s trash and recycling schedule helps keep the community clean and safe. Residents who have questions can call 518-382-5144 or refer to the City of Schenectady website.