As we wrap up 2025 and gear up for a fresh start in the new year, many Atlanta homeowners are already planning their spring cleanouts, home renovations, and yard overhauls.

One essential service that helps keep our neighborhoods tidy is the City of Atlanta’s bulk trash pickup program, managed by the Department of Public Works Office of Solid Waste Services (SWS).

For 2026, the process remains straightforward and resident-friendly, offering up to 12 free scheduled collections per year for single-family homes.

Whether you’re ditching an old sofa or hauling away storm debris, here’s everything you need to know to stay on schedule and avoid common pitfalls.

How Bulk Trash Pickup Works in Atlanta

Unlike regular weekly garbage and recycling routes, bulk trash collection isn’t tied to a fixed calendar day—it’s an on-demand service that residents must schedule in advance. This flexibility allows you to plan around your needs, but it also means proactive booking is key.

  • Scheduling Your Pickup: Residents can request a bulk collection at least one business day ahead of their desired date. Use the official SWS Collection Tool online or call ATL311 at (404) 546-0311 (or dial 311 from within city limits). atlantaga.gov The tool not only lets you book but also helps identify your regular trash and recycling days based on your address.
  • Placement Rules: Once scheduled, place your bulk items at the curb by 7 p.m. the night before your pickup day. Items should be neatly piled and accessible, but keep them at least 3 feet from any carts or vehicles to ensure safe collection.
  • Frequency Limit: Single-family households qualify for 12 free bulk pickups annually. Overages may incur fees, so track your requests through the ATL311 app or website. Multi-family properties or businesses have separate commercial guidelines—check with SWS for details.

For the most up-to-date availability, visit the Office of Solid Waste Services page.

What Qualifies as Bulk Trash?

Bulk items are defined as anything too large, heavy, or voluminous for standard garbage trucks. Common examples include:

  • Furniture (sofas, mattresses, tables)
  • Appliances (refrigerators, washers—freon-containing units must have certification tags)
  • Large yard waste piles (over 20 bags of leaves or trimmings count as bulk)
  • Construction debris like wooden playground sets or metal scraps
  • Electronics (TVs, computers—e-waste recycling encouraged)

Pro Tip: Not everything goes in bulk. Tires, hazardous materials (paint, chemicals), and medical waste require special drop-off or services. For a full list, refer to the SWS guidelines.

Holiday Impacts on 2026 Collections

Holidays can shift your regular trash, recycling, and bulk schedules, but bulk pickups—being scheduled—may need rescheduling if they fall on a delayed day.

While the official 2026 holiday schedule hasn’t been released yet (as of December 2025), it’s expected to mirror 2025’s pattern: most federal holidays trigger a one-day delay for collections, with exceptions for Presidents’ Day, Indigenous Peoples’ Day, and Veterans’ Day, which follow normal routes.

Key 2026 dates to watch:

  • Martin Luther King Jr. Day: Monday, January 19 (likely one-day delay)
  • Presidents’ Day: Monday, February 15 (regular schedule)
  • Memorial Day: Monday, May 25 (one-day delay)
  • Juneteenth: Thursday, June 19 (one-day delay)
  • Independence Day: Friday, July 3 (observed; one-day delay)
  • Labor Day: Monday, September 7 (one-day delay)
  • Indigenous Peoples’ Day: Monday, October 12 (regular)
  • Veterans Day: Tuesday, November 11 (regular)
  • Thanksgiving: Thursday, November 26 (one-day delay)
  • Christmas: Thursday, December 25 (one-day delay)

Stay tuned to the SWS Holiday Schedule page for the official 2026 update, typically posted in late fall.

atlantaga.gov In the meantime, the 2025 schedule provides a reliable preview.Tips for a Smooth 2026 Cleanup

  • Download the App: The free ATL311 app (available on iOS and Android) sends reminders, tracks requests, and reports issues like missed pickups.
  • Eco-Friendly Alternatives: For large hauls, consider the city’s free drop-off events or partner with local recyclers to reduce landfill waste.
  • Report Problems: If your bulk pickup is missed, log it via ATL311 within 24 hours.

Atlanta’s bulk trash program is a vital tool for maintaining our city’s cleanliness and sustainability goals. By scheduling early and following guidelines, residents can keep 2026 off to a clutter-free start.

For personalized assistance, head to the SWS Collection Tool today.

Final Word

As the city lights up with yet another special event this weekend, remember: Safe driving is the real treat. For more tips on navigating safely around the city, read our Atlanta Traffic Guide.

More from AtlantaFi.com: