Visitors / Employees
Trash and Recycling Services
Trash
Trash
Trash and recycling should be set out for City pick-up between 7pm the night before collection day and 7am the day of collection. Visit http://citymaps.phila.gov, and type your address in the search bar to find out your trash and recycling day.
Recycling
Recycling
Residential recycling is picked up every week in Philadelphia, on the same day as trash removal. Any container can be used, as long as it’s clearly labeled “Recycling.” Blue recycling bins are available from most hardware stores and can be picked up from Philadelphia recycling centers or UCD’s office when available. Get rewards for recycling from the Philadelphia Recycling Awards.
Recycling FAQ
What Can I Recycle Curbside?
Here is a complete list of what can be recycled curbside.
Items that can’t be recycled curbside:
- Single use batteries - Size D, C, AA, AAA, and 9 volt are not considered hazardous and can be recycled locally. Find recycling centers for single use batteries.
- Rechargeable computer and cell phone batteries - Rechargeable batteries can be dropped off at the City’s Household Hazardous Waste events or at a retailer participating in the Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation's (RBRC) program. Residents can call 1-800-8-Battery for the nearest location or visit www.rbrc.com.
- Compact Fluorescent Bulbs - Recycling CFLs prevents the release of mercury into the environment and reuses glass, metals and other materials. You can drop off your CFLs at the City’s Household Hazardous Waste events, at area Home Depot stores, or at Ikea (2206 S. Columbus Blvd).
- Computers, televisions, and other electronics - These can be brought to our nearest Sanitation Convenience Center at 5100 Grays Ave., from Monday-Saturday, 8AM to 6PM. (215-685-2600).
- Plastic bags - Plastic bags are not acceptable in the city’s curbside recycling, nor are they accepted any longer at the Fresh Grocer at 40th & Walnut. Try bringing reusable bags along for errands in order to avoid using plastic bags in the first place.
Commercial Recycling
Commercial Recycling Regulations apply to all businesses that utilize a private or city waste collection in Philadelphia.