MEMPHIS, Tenn. — When storms hit the city of Memphis, they can leave behind a trail of debris. City leaders want to make sure you know what’s required to get rid of the mess.
The following guidelines come from Memphis Public Works Solid Waste Division.
Bulk waste is picked up at curb twice a month.
Regular bulk items are collected twice monthly based on the address. Check for bulk collection weeks through the Memphis Curbside Collection app or city website at https://www.memphistn.gov/solid-waste/.
Regular curbside pickup standards are still in place for garbage and recycle carts, as well as all non-storm related waste placed outside of the cart.
Contractors are required to remove debris they cut.
Memphis has a city ordinance that says contactor and tree companies must remove the limbs and debris from their work. If they don’t, the property owner will be responsible for the costs to the city for removal and disposal.
Tree debris must be cut to less than 5 feet in length and 13 inches in diameter.
For property owners cutting and clearing debris themselves, the debris must meet those dimensions, or they could get a code violation notice and end up paying the city. The city said larger debris can damage equipment.
Tree limbs and branches should be separated from non-vegetative debris such as wood planks or roofing.
The city tries to mulch organic debris, and not separating into piles could lead to longer collection times.
- Vegetative storm debris includes whole trees, tree stumps, tree branches, tree trunks, and other leafy material downed or damaged by the recent storm event.
Make sure debris is at the curb.
Solid waste crews can’t leave the street. Debris should be at least four feet away from fixed objects like mailboxes, vehicles, poles, etc. Any debris in the middle of the lawn after a crew pickup must be moved to the curb for collection.
There are drop-off locations.
Bring a recent MLGW bill for proof of solid waste fee payment.
Residential solid waste customers can take storm debris to:
- Farrisview
- 3207 Farrisview Blvd
- Monday - Friday
- 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
- Collins Yard
- 304 Collins Street
- Friday – Sunday
- 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Landfills remain available.
Residential solid waste customers can take one truckload of non-hazardous waste to the landfill each month. Landfill locations are:
- Republic Services North Shelby Landfill
- 7111 Old Millington Rd
- Millington, TN 38053
- Republic Services South Shelby Landfill
- 5494 Malone Rd
- Memphis, TN 38119
For more information, contact Memphis’ 311.