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Household Bulk Item Collection Pilot Program Overview
The Household Bulk Item Collection Pilot Program is a temporary service offered by the Public Works Department to allow residents to dispose of up to three large household items at the curb at no additional cost, within established limits. The pilot program will be in March 2026 with one collection week per garbage collection zone.
Eligibility and Participation
The program is available to residential properties only and does not apply to commercial properties. Residential properties, including apartment complexes, are eligible as long as they use rollout containers rather than dumpsters. All bulk items must be placed curbside or roadside for collection, not in the alleys. No registration, scheduling, or opt-in is required for households to participate.
Cost and Item Limits
There is no charge to participate in the pilot program as long as households follow the program guidelines. Each household may place up to three bulk items at the curb during their scheduled collection week at no additional cost. If more than three items are placed at the curb, or if prohibited items are included, additional fees may be issued.
Collection Schedule and Zones
The community will be divided into collection zones based on regular residential garbage collection days. One zone will be serviced each week over the course of the month:
- Tuesday garbage collection: Week One (beginning March 2)
- Wednesday garbage collection: Week Two (beginning March 9)
- Thursday garbage collection: Week Three (beginning March 16)
- Friday garbage collection: Week Four (beginning March 23)
Residents must place items at the curb by Sunday evening of their assigned week. Collection will begin on Mondays, and crews will not return to streets once they have been serviced.
Bulk Item Calendar - March 2026
What Qualifies as a Bulk Item
Bulk items are household items that are too large to fit into a standard rollout container and are no larger than a couch or a major household appliance. Examples include furniture, mattresses, and large appliances that meet preparation requirements. For counting purposes, certain groupings are considered one item, such as a mattress with box springs, a headboard and footboard set, or a sectional sofa. Each appliance counts as one item, and individual pieces in bedroom or living room suites are counted separately.
Appliances are Allowed - Must be Tagged Freon/Coolant-Free
Appliances including washing machines, dishwashers, dryers, and refrigerators are allowed. Appliances such as refrigerators and air conditioning units must be tagged as freon or coolant-free, with the tag clearly visible from the curb. Appliances that are not properly tagged will not be collected. Doors do not need to be removed from refrigerators or other appliances.
Placement Guidelines and Timing for Bulk Items
Bulk items must be placed at the curb or the edge of the roadway. Items may not be placed in alleys, on sidewalks, or behind fences. Residents should ensure items are kept clear of mailboxes, fire hydrants, and pedestrian pathways.
Items should be placed at the curb on the Saturday or Sunday immediately prior to the scheduled collection week.
Residents are encouraged to be courteous to neighbors by avoiding placing items at the curb days or weeks in advance. Because collection may occur any day during the assigned week, all items must be placed out before Monday morning.
More than 3 Items = Pay Pile Fee
Properties that place more than three bulk items may be assessed a pay pile fee. The Solid Waste Division will collect and dispose of these items for a minimum fee of $25, which is added to the water bill. Fees vary based on pile size and how much space the items take in the knuckleboom truck. Pay piles will continue to be available during the pilot program month.
Prohibited Items
All existing solid waste rules apply during the pilot program. If any prohibited items are included at a property, none of the bulk items will be collected. Prohibited items include electronic scrap, tires, construction or demolition materials, hazardous waste, appliances containing freon without proper documentation, items placed in alleys, propane tanks, flammable materials, and batteries. Property owners are responsible for properly disposing of prohibited items. Items must be removed by the following week or the property owner may face a possible citation.
Missed Pickups and Late Items
Crews will not return to streets once they have been serviced. Items placed out late must be removed by the following week and may result in a citation. Residents may contact Public Works for more information or to schedule a pay pile collection if needed.
Weather and Equipment
Each zone has a five-day collection window, and Public Works expects collections to proceed even during inclement weather. If weather conditions significantly impact service, the City will communicate updates to residents. The program will be supported by dedicated knuckleboom trucks.
Program Evaluation
This is a pilot program, and the City will evaluate participation rates, tonnage collected, and crew time to determine its effectiveness. Residents may be asked to complete a feedback survey after the program concludes to help guide future decisions.
Regular Services and Contact Information
Regular garbage and curbside recycling services will not be affected during the Household Bulk Item Collection Pilot Program. Residents with questions may contact the Public Works Department at 270-444-8511 or visit this page for updates, schedules, and additional details.
