Portland garbage service remains on schedule
At this time, no major disruptions or delays in residential garbage, recycling, or compost service have been reported from garbage haulers.
We are closely monitoring possible staffing shortages due to COVID-19 and will provide updates on this page and on our facebook and twitter channels if there are any service disruptions.
What to do if pickup is delayed
In the case that delays occur, garbage companies will notify customers with specific information about whether garbage, recycling, or compost collection is impacted and how long the delay will be. The situation may vary by neighborhood, so your garbage and recycling company will be the best source of information for your household.
General tips
These may change depending on the circumstances of the delays. Please follow the directions provided by your garbage and recycling company.
Set bins out the night before. Collection may happen earlier (or later) than usual.
Leave bins at the curb if they have not been emptied on your normal pickup day. Your garbage company will empty them as soon as they are able.
Set out extras the following week: If delays extend to your next collection day, you can set out extra waste for no charge. This includes bags of garbage, paper yard waste bags of compost, and paper bags or boxes of recycling.
What to do with big, bulky items
Before putting any large items out on the curb, call your garbage company to find out when they can pick up the item(s) and how much it will cost. Pickup may be delayed or temporarily suspended if staff shortages occur. If the item is usable, there may be pickup or drop-off donation options available: Contact Metro at 503-234-3000 or use their online search tool.
Bag all garbage
For the health and safety of waste collectors and the community, please bag all garbage as tightly and securely as possible. You may use any type of bag. (Note: Do not bag recycling. Plastic bags should never be put in recycling or compost.)
Wipes go in the garbage. Cleaning wipes should always go in the garbage. Never put wipes in your recycling or compost, even if they're labeled compostable or biodegradable. Never flush wipes down the toilet, even if they're labeled flushable: They can clog sewers.
Sign up for updates
Subscribe to weekly garbage day reminder emails to learn about any changes.
- Go to the Garbage company and schedule lookup page and enter your home address.
- You’ll be taken to PortlandMaps.com: Scroll down past the garbage day calendar, to “Your Collection Schedule.”
- Enter your email to subscribe to weekly garbage day email reminders.
Questions?
Contact us at wasteinfo@portlandoregon.gov or 503-823-7202. Staff are available Monday through Friday, 8am - 5pm.
Thank you to garbage and recycling company staff who have worked throughout the pandemic to provide this crucial public service.