Refuse Collection: General Information

Collecting Refuse is a Big Job

The Refuse collection service of the City of Willoughby requires that the use of a large amount of expensive equipment and trained personnel in the operation of this collection, disposal and maintenance. We need your help and cooperation to make this operation a success and reach a common goal of keeping our city in a clean sanitary condition. We realize that it is impossible to set up regulations to collect waste material which will fit each individual’s particular circumstance. However, the only items that are acceptable for collection are those termed normal household refuse; this is outlined herein.

Questions about refuse collection should be referred to Waste Management Customer Service Department or Willoughby Service Department. Office hours for Waste Management are Monday through Friday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, office hours for City Hall are Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm.

Frequency of Collection

All refuse shall be collected once each week per route schedule in this pamphlet and shall be placed at curb by resident no sooner than the evening prior to scheduled collection day. The empty containers must be removed from curb area the same day as collections to prevent safety hazards. All refuse must be at curb no later than 7:00 A.M. of scheduled collection day and the containers removed by 7:00 P.M. the same day. Crews will not backtrack for stops not placed at the curb during their first pass through the daily route. Ignoring these regulations shall be just cause for issuance of littering citation. The collection crew will stop regularly for collection of waste materials on same day each week unless inclement weather or other conditions make this impossible. Holiday pickups will be according to the contractor’s holiday collection schedule. Notice of the holiday schedule is published in the local newspaper prior to the holidays. Taped messages advising holiday collection schedules can be heard by calling City hall, Monday – Friday 8:00 A.M. – 4:30 P.M. Waste Management Customer Service can also be contacted Monday – Friday 8:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M. for refuse collection information.

Holiday Schedule

Solid waste will be collected one (1) day later than your normal collection day on weeks with an observed holiday. These weeks will require us to complete all of our routes by Saturday. OBSERVED HOLIDAYS include: New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.

Preparation and Acceptable Containers

Preparation of Garbage – Drain and wrap in heavy paper sacks or in newspaper. It is more sanitary and helps control odors.

Separation of Waste – All garbage may be placed in the same container, providing that container is of adequate size, but not over the maximum size as provided under city regulations. All metal, heavy waste, and rubbish shall be placed at the curb separately as it is processed through a different operation than the garbage.

Containers – Plastic or metal containers may be used for garbage. They must have a handle or handles and a close fitting lid. Maximum capacity is 30 gallon (No.2 can), although a 20 gallon can in recommended as being more practical for most residences. The maximum weight of each can is 50 pounds.

Animals – Confine your animals for protection of all concerned. Animal dirt/waste must be properly wrapped and separately bagged if placed at curb for pick-up.

Lost Articles – It is almost impossible to find lost items thrown into waste. The City cannot assume this responsibility nor can Waste Management.

Snow and Ice – You can be assured that our collection personnel appreciate your efforts to clear away ice and snow. Ordinances require your sidewalks to be kept clear.

Courtesy – The contractor’s employees are instructed to be courteous. They, in turn, appreciate your cooperation and consideration. Their people and vehicles are identified. If you have any problems make sure to get information so we can help resolve any problems.

Definitions of Normal Household Refuse

Garbage – Waste from preparation, cooking and serving of food, including paper, plastic and small foam or paper food containers.

Rubbish – Combustible: paper, cardboard cartons, excelsior, plastic, rags, cloth, bedding, leather, rubber, furniture. Noncombustible: small pieces of metal, ceramics, crockery, other mineral refuse.

Paint – Containers must be open and paint must be dry. No liquids will be accepted.

Carpeting and Padding – Must be no longer than 4' in width, rolled and tied for easy handling by one person. Maximum 50 lbs. per bundle.

Bulky Waste – Stoves, refrigerators (doors must be removed), other large appliances, furniture, televisions, crates (not to be filled with debris).

Large Automobile Parts – Large automobile parts, including engines and transmissions, will not be collected.

Construction and Demolition Waste

Minor Repairs – acceptable for pick up are light home alterations by resident, such as downspout/gutters (4' lengths), kitchen cabinets, hot water tanks, windows and doors – see note below on "glass". These items must be prepared so that ONE man can handle; weight not exceeding 50 pounds.

Major Projects – Collection does not include: roofing, siding, flooring materials; fire damage or NEW construction material; concrete, concrete blocks, brick, rocks or soil. Contractors are responsible for the removal of ALL their debris. This includes lawn care companies. Glass must be removed from the windows or doors prior to placing on curb.

Recyclable Materials – See recycling page..