Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about trash pickup, recycling, or your service?
You’re in the right place. Below are answers to the most common questions we get from customers across the East Metro. Whether you’re checking pickup day details, replacing a bin, or dealing with a missed cart, we’ve got you covered.
Still have questions? Call us at 651‑459‑1887 or contact us online.
WHAT IS CONSIDERED REGULAR HOUSEHOLD TRASH?
Regular household trash includes everyday waste like food wrappers, disposable packaging, non-recyclable plastics, and general debris.
WHAT ARE MY COLLECTION TIMES AND PICKUP DAY?
Your pickup day is determined when you sign up for service. If you’re unsure, call our office at 651‑459‑1887 and we’ll confirm it for you.
Carts must be placed at the curb by 6:00 AM on your scheduled day or the night before to ensure it is not missed.
CAN I THROW TRASH IN THE RECYCLING BIN?
No. The recycling cart or bin is strictly for single stream recycling. No trash or yard debris can be placed in this special container.
CAN I PUT GRASS AND LEAVES IN MY TRASH OR RECYCLING CONTAINER?
No. It is against the law to mix compost with trash, Minnesota Statute 115A.931. You can however put garden clean-out material and small sticks in your trash container. Please do not put grass clippings or raked leaves in your containers or we will not be able to take your trash until it’s removed. Call our office for compost pickup.
CAN I PUT EXTRA RECYCLING IN PLASTIC BAGS?
No. If you have more recycling than what will fit into your container or bin, we ask that you use a cardboard box or another one of your own personal containers for the extra items. You are not charged for having extra recycling.
WHAT DO I DO IF MY TRASH OR RECYCLING BIN GOES MISSING?
Carts and bins often go missing on windy days. First check with your neighbors to see if they accidentally took yours. If you are unable to locate your container please call our office.
WHAT IF MY CART IS CRACKED OR A WHEEL IS BROKEN?
Occasionally things happen with the everyday use and wear and tear of your carts or bin. Call the office and we will schedule someone to come and fix or replace it at no cost to you. If your container was damaged by fire, lost, stolen, defaced or damaged beyond repair due to your negligence the homeowner will be billed for the container.
MY GARBAGE CONTAINER SMELLS BAD. WHAT CAN I DO?
We have found that regular spraying with a hose works wonders! But if you just can’t get the smell out, we recommend that you use any slightly deluted laundry detergent or pine-sol like product poured all the way down the sides of your container and left overnight then rinsed will eliminate the smell. You are responsible for keeping your container clean. We will replace your container for a fee if requested.
WHAT HOLIDAYS AFFECT TRASH AND RECYCLING PICKUP?
Your pick-up day may be affected by the following holidays:
- New Year’s Day
- Memorial Day
- Independence Day
- Labor Day
- Thanksgiving Day
- Christmas Day
Please see the Holiday Schedule section on our web site.
HOW DO I SAFELY DISPOSE OF SYRINGES OR NEEDLES?
It is imperative that proper steps are taken when disposing of syringes/needles. We do not accept these items because they are considered hazardous waste. To ensure the safety of our crew or others that may come in contact with these items please dispose of them properly. Washington County is able to take them at their hazardous waste facility if you are a Washington County resident. Otherwise, contact your physician or place you received them from for other options that might be available.
HOW DO YOU HANDLE VACATION HOLDS OR SERVICE STOPS?
For vacation or stops of 2 weeks or more, you must call our office to stop the service prior to being gone to receive any credit.