Carts are Coming!
Trash and recycling collection carts will be delivered to all single-family homes and townhomes that receive curbside collection services between Sept. 1 to 14. You do not need to take any action or be home for the delivery. Carts will be left at the curb.
These 64-gallon carts make disposal easier, neater, and more efficient—for both you and our crews.
Why the switch?
- 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
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 between Sept. 1 to 14. You do not need to take any action or be home for the delivery! Carts will be left at the curb.
When will the carts be distributed?
Carts will be delivered between Sept. 1 to 14. A specific 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.
You can also check the distribution schedule below.
2025 Cart Delivery Schedule(CSV, 183KB)
How To Use the Spreadsheet:
To find your address: Press Ctrl+F (or Cmd+F on Mac) and search your street number or street name.
Note: Delivery may occur up to two days before or after the date shown
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.
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 64-gallon black trash cart
- One 64-gallon 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?
The city offers only 64-gallon containers because they provide the best balance between capacity, ease of use, and compatibility with our collection vehicles. Cart standardization improves collection efficiency, reduces contamination, and supports safer working conditions for our crews.
What if I need a bigger or smaller cart?
If you regularly need more or less 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. Simply place your old trash and recycling bins upside down or labeled 'please take' at the curb on Friday, Sept. 12. Collection will take place on Sept. 12 and Sept. 13. There is no need to schedule, call ahead, or be home. Crews will remove and recycle them for you.
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.