Frequently Asked Questions

Refuse & Recycling pickups vary by street.

Part of the cost savings associated with automated collection results from lower hauling costs in collecting recyclables on an every other week schedule. As such, customers will have more recyclable materials to store between collections. For garbage, the City recommends the larger carts primarily for two reasons. First, if customers have an occasional party or family gathering that results in more garbage in a given week, the larger carts will provide some extra room and hopefully prevent the customer from having to make other arrangements to properly dispose of the excess garbage. Second, if there happens to be a winter storm on a customer's collection day the customer may find it more convenient to not put out the cart during the storm. The larger cart may enable customers to go 2 weeks, if needed.

Automated collection is generally considered more convenient for the customers (residents), results in less litter around neighborhoods, is environmentally friendlier, and more cost effective than traditional garbage and recycling collection.

Customers will be able to do away with their current garbage cans and recycling buckets - the new carts can likely be stored in the same location as these items were previously being stored. All customers should make every effort to store the carts in an orderly manner and preferably out of sight. Carts may NOT be stored permanently at the roadside.

It is okay on occasion to put out a cart that has materials slightly above the top of the cart. If the excess materials prevent the lid from closing halfway (45 degree angle) then it is generally too much for that collection. If the lid can close halfway or more then it is acceptable for collection. DO NOT PUT ANY MATERIALS ON TOP OF THE CLOSED LID OR OFF TO THE SIDE - THESE MATERIALS WILL NOT BE COLLECTED.

Yes, the City has contracted with Willimantic Waste Paper to pick up your trash and recyclables ONLY in the provided carts. Alternative carts and/or conventional trash cans will not be serviced.

Trash and recycling collection is always difficult during winter storms. Public Works constantly monitors winter storm events and sometimes cancels collection when large storm events are forecasted. In this case, collection is usually delayed by one day, similar to a holiday schedule week. If a smaller storm occurs on your collection day and collection is not cancelled, carts should be placed in a manner that does not restrict Public Works snowplowing operations, such as at the end of a driveway or on the sidewalk. Do not place carts in the street when snow is forecasted. Living in New England presents these types of challenges from time to time and the City appreciates residents' patience and application of common sense when the weather doesn't cooperate with our schedules.

Yes, but please park in a manner that does not obstruct carts that have been put out for collection. If you park on the street but normally leave prior to 6 a.m. you will not obstruct placed carts.