Q1: Why wasn't my trash picked up?
A: Some of the most common problems and solutions are:
A. Late setout. Your curbside collected solid waste (refuse, recycling or compost) was set out after 7 a.m. on the collection date. (Set materials out before 7 a.m. the next week, or even the night before the collection day.)
B. Overflow. Your trash didn't fit into the your A2 Cart. Be sure to recycle as much as possible (That option is unlimited and free). Then, save the dry trash for the next week; or see #3 below. If you consistently have more trash than fits into your trash cart, order additional carts from the Customer Service Center (734) 99-GREEN. An annual fee will be added to your water bill to cover the additional trash capacity.
C. Oversized and bulky trash. Unwanted sofas, appliances, mattresses, televisions, etc. Arrange for a for a private hauler or take to the Drop-Off Station.
D. No Compostables in plastic bags--use paper bags. Plastic bags are acceptable for refuse, but not for yard waste. (Put compostables in compost carts, paper bags or tie into bundles and set out next week.)
E. Dumpster problems. Your dumpster was blocked by a vehicle, snow or furniture (see dumpster maintenance). Or, your dumpster contained prohibited materials. (Notify the Customer Service Center at (734) 99-GREEN, to clarify problem, resolve before next week’s scheduled service.)
F. Prohibited materials. Your solid waste contains prohibited materials or improperly prepared medical waste, paint or animal waste (see special refuse materials preparation). (Please correct problems so materials may be safely handled the next week.)
7. Holiday. It was one of the six holidays/year observed by the collection drivers. (Check the holiday collection schedule. Collection routes will be serviced one day later following the holiday.)
G. We made a mistake. We’re sorry. Please enter your missed pickup address at the online Customer Response System. Or you may contact the Customer Service Center at (734) 99-GREEN and leave description of your missed refuse, compostables or commercial recyclables as well as your address and phone number. Use the online reporting via CRS or call Recycle Ann Arbor at (734) 662-6288 for missed residential recyclables.
2: How can I get a free recycling cart?
A: See How to get recycling bins.
3: How do I get rid of televisions and computer monitors?
A: See the electronics disposal page.
4: How do I get rid of household hazardous waste, such as motor oil, or oil paints?
A: See the HomeToxics page or contact Washtenaw County's Home Toxics Collection Center at 734-222-3950.
5: When is my curbside trash and recycling pickup day?
A: See the Curbside Collection Map. Remember everything needs to be at the curb BEFORE 7 a.m.
6: What do I do with my unwanted old sofa and
refrigerator?
A: See Bulky waste management.
7: What items can I put in my recycling bin?
A: See the recycling guide web page.
15: How should I responsibly handle my dog droppings and cat litter? Is it OK to put these materials in my compostable collection container?
A: Animal waste and diapers must be double-bagged in plastic before placing into your A2 Cart or dumpster. These items are not allowed to be placed in with compostables.
8: How come I can't recycle things like paper cups and napkins?
A: Paper cups have a thin layer of plastic which is difficult to remove and is a contaminant in the recycling process. Items like paper towels and napkins are made from very low quality paper, which cannot be made into more paper. In addition, paper cups, paper plates, napkins, and paper towels are usually contaminated with food, dirt, or chemicals.
9: I am not able to carry my trash to the curb anymore. What should I do? Can you help me?
A: Please contact the Customer Service Center at (734) 99-GREEN to discuss arranging a side-door, disabled collection of refuse and recyclables from your home.
10: I have poor vision and need information with larger type.
A: Please select the largest "A" on each Web page to get easier-to-read information.
11: I have questions about the city's A2 recycling, refuse and optional compost carts.
A: Please consult www.a2gov.org/carts for more information.
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Other Qs? Contact customerservice@a2gov.org