Carts are Coming!
⚠️UPDATE: New trash/recycling carts delayed until later this fall.
Delivery to all single-family homes and townhomes that receive curbside collection services will still take place, but the city is making program updates to provide more flexibility to our curbside collection services.
Why the switch?
These carts make disposal easier, neater, and more efficient—for both you and our crews.
- Easy to use - no more lifting, just roll your cart to the curb
- Weatherproof - attached lids keep contents dry and contained
- Spacious - more room for recyclables means higher recycling rate
- Cleaner environment - lids prevent litter from being blown into our neighborhoods and polluting our local streams, parks, and natural areas
- Increased safety - rolling carts and mechanical lifts protect our workforce from additional strain and injury
Frequently Asked Questions
When are Carts Coming?
The cart delivery has been delayed to provide critical updates to the program. More information will be available soon!
When will the carts be distributed?
The carts delivery has been delayed. An updated delivery day for your household/neighborhood will be included in the mailer sent to every household, but delivery may occur up to two days before or after.
Accompanying the carts will be an updated eight-page service guide, a new recycling magnet, and two "Yard Waste Only" stickers to repurpose your old bins.
What do I need to do for the delivery of the carts?
Nothing! Carts will be delivered to all single-family homes and townhomes that receive curbside collection services. You do not need to take any action or be home for the delivery! Carts will be left at the curb. More information and a detailed delivery schedule with be available soon!
Will curbside collection change?
Curbside trash, recycling, and yard waste collection will continue without interruption during and after the rollout.
Are there any special instructions for placing carts out for collection?
Carts should be placed at the curb away from trees, mailboxes, fire hydrants, and parked cars. Cart handles should face towards the street so the crew members can easily access them and bring them to the trucks.
What do the carts look like, how big are they, how many do I get, and what do they cost?
Your Free Cart Package
Every single-family home and townhome that receives city curbside collection services will receive:
- One black trash cart
- One blue recycling cart
Both carts are provided at no cost and include:
- Wheels for easy maneuverability
- Lids to prevent litter
- A recycling 'how-to' guide on the lid for quick reference
Is the city offering any other sizes for the trash and recycling carts?
Yes! More information and updates coming soon!
What if I need a bigger or smaller cart?
If you regularly need more space, you can continue to use existing containers or purchase your own. City-issued carts will still be delivered to every address, and residents are encouraged to use them.
I already have trash and recycling cans. Can I return or refuse the city's new carts and use my own?
No, the carts are numerically registered to the address to which they were originally delivered and must remain with the property. These carts are part of a larger effort to provide safe, equitable, standardized, and efficient curbside collection services for all residents, we cannot accommodate individual requests from households to opt out.
I don't have space for these carts, and I do not want them.
We understand that some residents do not have the ideal storage space for the new carts, and that some homeowner associations restrict the placement of waste receptacles. City staff is working directly with HOAs to support bylaws updates and design guidelines that accommodate the new carts. Residents may not opt out of receiving the carts, and the city is committed to helping create a smooth transition for your household.
What happens if I move, or rent my home?
These carts are the property of the City of Fairfax and are numerically registered to the address to which they were originally delivered. If you decide to move or rent your house, simply leave your carts with the property.
What should I do with my old trash and recycling bins?
Repurpose Your Old Bins:
- Old trash bins can be used for brush and yard waste collection. Each household will receive two 'Yard Waste Only' stickers to label old bins for yard waste collection.
The existing 18-gallon recycling bins can be reused for various purposes, such as:
- Glass recycling bin: Use it to collect glass separately and transport it to a purple glass recycling container.
- Electronics & battery storage: Store used batteries, small electronics, or cords to bring to an e-waste recycling center (such as the I-66 Transfer Station).
- Backyard composter: Drill a few drainage holes, and it can serve as a small compost bin for food scraps and yard waste.
- Storage container: Perfect for organizing garden tools, cleaning supplies, or outdoor gear.
- Extra recycling bin: Keep it as a backup for overflow recycling.
- Kids' garden or toy bin: Use it to store outdoor toys or as a portable garden tub for collecting weeds or leaves.
- Car trunk organizer: Keep it in the trunk to store reusable bags, sports equipment, or emergency supplies.
One-Time Take-Back Option: If you prefer to dispose of your old bins, the city is offering a one-time recycling take-back option. Morer information coming soon!
Will the city continue providing backdoor service with the new carts?
Yes. We remain committed to providing accommodations to applicable residents.
Can I personalize the carts?
Residents may add their house number to the carts if desired. Each cart has a unique number and RFID tag linked to your address to help track and manage carts.
If you have any immediate questions, please contact Melissa McDonald at melissa.mcdonald@fairfaxva.gov or 703-293-1661.