BulkTrashHub — Bulk Trash Prep Checklist
bulktrashub.com | Free to print and share | Updated 2025
📅 Before Pickup Day
Confirm your exact pickup date at your city's solid waste portal
Set a calendar reminder for the evening before
Check your city's item eligibility list — remove prohibited items
Sort items into eligible vs. ineligible
Route ineligible items to alternatives (donation, e-waste, HHW)
🧊 Appliance Prep
Refrigerator: refrigerant removed by certified tech
Refrigerator: door removed or latch disabled
Refrigerator/freezer: fully defrosted and drained
Washer: drum drained completely
Water heater: disconnected and drained
Lawnmower: gas tank emptied
🌿 Yard Debris Prep
Branches cut to size (max 4" diameter, 6 ft. length for most cities)
Branches bundled and tied with rope or twine
Bundles under 50 lbs each
Vegetation separated from household items
Tree stumps arranged for separate private pickup
🚛 Pickup Day Morning
Items at curb by 6:00 AM (or city's specified time)
Items within 4–5 feet of curb edge
Items not blocking sidewalk, hydrant, or utilities
Car moved — 10 ft clearance from pile for truck arm
Items placed loose, not in garbage bags
Photo taken of pile with timestamp
📸 If It's Not Picked Up
Check curb for rejection tag (orange/yellow sticker)
Remove any flagged prohibited items
Report missed pickup online or by phone within 48 hours
Save your report/case number
Confirm city's return visit timeline
Check if items should remain at curb or be moved
❌ Never Put in Bulk Pile
🚫 Electronics (TVs, computers, printers)
🚫 Paint, chemicals, motor oil, propane
🚫 Tires (any kind)
🚫 Construction debris (concrete, drywall, lumber)
🚫 Refrigerator with refrigerant intact
🚫 Medical waste or sharps
🚫 Bags of regular garbage
BulkTrashHub.com — Free bulk trash information for U.S. residents. Verify rules at your city's public works website.