Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers about garbage, recycling, green waste, billing, containers, programs, and service expectations for Wasatch Front Waste & Recycling District residents.
Can I place garbage bags or items on the ground next to my garbage can for pickup?Garbage
No. Items must fit inside the garbage can with the lid able to close. Extra bags or items placed on the ground are not collected.
What time do I need to have my cans out?Garbage
Place cans at the curb the night before your service day, or no later than early morning on collection day, to ensure you do not miss the route.
How should I place my cans at the curb?Garbage
Place the can on level ground with the wheels against the curb (or near the edge of the roadway), leaving space between cans and keeping them clear of cars, trees, and mailboxes.
My garbage was missed. What should I do?Garbage
First, confirm it was your scheduled collection day and that the can was out and accessible. If it was, contact us as soon as possible so staff can review the route and determine next steps.
Do you pick up bulky items (mattresses, furniture, large household items)?Garbage
Bulky items are typically not collected with weekly curbside service. Many residents use a landfill voucher (once per year) or rent a trailer for bulk disposal. If you are unsure, contact us with the item type and address for guidance.
What is HDPE?Recycling
HDPE is high-density polyethylene, commonly labeled #2 plastic (example: milk jugs and some detergent bottles). See our recycling guidance for acceptable materials.
Should I bag my recycling?Recycling
Most recycling programs require recycling to be loose (not in plastic bags). If you are unsure what applies to your area, follow the “How to Recycle” instructions or contact the District.
What happens if I put non-recyclables in my recycling can?Recycling
Contamination can cause loads to be rejected and may lead to a warning tag. Use the recycling guidelines to prevent contamination.
Do I need to rinse containers before recycling?Recycling
Yes—empty and lightly rinse containers to reduce odors and contamination. They do not need to be spotless.
How do I sign up for a Green Waste can?Green Waste
Request online. Fees and terms are listed on the current fee schedule.
What can go in the Green Waste can?Green Waste
Green waste is for yard debris (example: leaves, grass clippings, small branches). Do not place garbage, rocks, dirt, or construction debris in green waste.
Is green waste collected year-round?Green Waste
Green waste service is seasonal (typically mid-March to mid-December). Dates and costs are listed in the fee schedule and program information pages.
How much are my fees?Billing
Fees vary by service and optional subscriptions. Use the current fee schedule for the most up-to-date rates.
Why does a second garbage can cost more?Billing
Garbage disposal costs are higher than recycling or green waste processing. If you regularly overflow, green waste service may help reduce garbage volume.
What happens if I don’t pay my fees?Billing
Late fees may accrue. Unpaid balances may be certified as delinquent and added to property taxes as allowed by policy, including an administrative fee when certified.
I’m a landlord. Can renters pay the bill directly?Billing
Yes, if the payment coupon/account information is included so the correct account is credited. The property owner remains responsible for ensuring the bill is paid.
I’m on a fixed income. Are there assistance programs?Billing
Salt Lake County Treasurer programs may reduce property taxes and related fees for qualifying residents. Contact the Treasurer’s Office for eligibility details.
- Salt Lake County Treasurer
- Phone: (385) 468-8300
My can is broken. Can I get a repair or replacement?Containers
Normal wear-and-tear repairs/replacements are typically provided at no charge. Lost, stolen, or owner-damaged cans may have a replacement cost.
Can I swap my can for a new or refurbished can?Containers
Yes. Fees and options (new vs. refurbished) are listed in the program request form and fee schedule.
My can went into the truck (hopper). What should I do?Containers
Contact us as soon as possible with your address and service day. Staff will document the report and advise on replacement options and timing.
What is the Seasonal Container Reservation Program (SCRP)?Programs
SCRP is an area-based program offering temporary container service at scheduled times, with limited reservations. Reservations open by area/zone and are first-come, first-served.
How do I know if I qualify for Early Bird vs. General reservations?Programs
Early Bird eligibility depends on your program rules for the year (example: residents who did not receive a container the prior year). Your postcard and the SCRP page will indicate your eligibility and reservation dates.
Do I need a postcard to participate in SCRP?Programs
Some areas use postcards to communicate eligibility and reservation timing. If you did not receive a postcard, contact us with your address so we can confirm your area/zone and program timing.
What is the landfill voucher program?Programs
The landfill voucher program provides an annual fee waiver opportunity for qualifying residents (once per year). Voucher rules and redemption steps are provided on the voucher page.
If you want, add your official voucher page link here: Landfill Voucher Program
Can I rent a trailer for bulk items or green waste?Programs
Yes. Trailer rental availability, pricing, and rules are provided on the trailer program page. Contact us if you need help choosing the right option.
If you want, add your official trailer page link here: Rent-A-Trailer Program
Can I opt out of waste and recycling services?General
No. Health and sanitation requirements apply to properties in the service area, and the District is obligated to provide collection service as designated by the city/metro township/county.
What is included in my basic service?General
Basic services generally include weekly garbage and recycling collection and access to certain programs. See the Basic Services page for the full list.
How do holidays affect collection?General
If a holiday falls on a scheduled collection day, collections are typically delayed one day for the remainder of the week (including a Saturday collection). Normal collection resumes the following week.
If you want, add your official holiday schedule page link here: Holiday Collection Schedule
Where do I report a problem or request service?General
Use our Contact form or call the office. For broken carts, use the Report Broken Cans form.
When did Salt Lake County Sanitation become Wasatch Front Waste & Recycling District?General
On January 1, 2013, the former Salt Lake County Sanitation operations became the Wasatch Front Waste & Recycling District, governed by a Board of Trustees representing the service areas.