How to properly dispose of waste in Memphis: An easy-to-follow guide

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — With blight and illegal dumping plaguing Memphis, the city is fighting an overwhelming amount of trash. 

The City of Memphis Public Works Division is actively working with the community to address illegal dumping and clean the streets. Millions of dollars have been allocated to tackle this issue, especially as complaints surged earlier this year about trash being dumped and abandoned around the city.

Despite these efforts, Memphis faces significant challenges in managing waste. 

To reduce the burden on local landfills, the Solid Waste Management Division has introduced several programs, including curbside recycling, yard waste composting, household hazardous waste disposal, and recycling drop-off centers.

In addition to the average weekly household garbage and recycling collection, the City of Memphis has a "Outside the Cart" bi-monthly service for residential customers. Twice per month on a regular collection day, the city will pick up yard debris in excess of two bags and outside the cart bulk waste like furniture. 

While these programs effectively address general waste and recyclables, they do not cover all types of waste. Certain items cannot be collected through curbside pickup and require special disposal methods. 

Common items not accepted curbside include:

• Fuel Tanks/Drums
• Motor Oil
• Hazardous/Toxic Waste
• Paint/Paint Thinner
• Anti-freeze
• Pool Chemicals
• Commercial Waste
• Pesticides/Herbicides
• Batteries
• Liquids of Any Kind
• Animal Carcasses
• Tires with Rims

So, how can Memphians to dispose of these types of waste?

At ABC24, we’ve put together an easy-to-follow guide to help Memphians manage their waste. Below are straightforward instructions and locations for disposing of items not covered by the Solid Waste Management program.

Hazardous Waste 

Hazardous Waste Site

• Location: 6305 Haley Road in Memphis.
• Hours: Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday (8 a.m. - 1 p.m.)
• Eligibility: Available for residents of Shelby County
• Limits:
  • There is a limit of 100 pounds of waste per vehicle every 30 days.
  • The facility accepts a maximum of one monitor, one keyboard, and one computer per family every 30 days.
• Requirements:
  • Items should be brought in a clear tote or box.
• Acceptable and unacceptable items: For lists, visit acceptable items and unacceptable items. 

Tires

• Curbside pickup: Homes serviced by the City may place up to four tires, sizes up to 11 x 22.5 at curbside for collection by the City. 
  • Note: Make sure to remove the rim and wheel weights first. 
• Drop-off location: Liberty Tires Recycling, 3000 Elvis Presley Blvd, Memphis, TN 38106
  • Hours: Mon - Fri 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
  • Contact: Call ahead (901) 396-5448 to schedule a drop off or pick up at 

Batteries

• Drop-off locations:
  • For locations, hours, and types of batteries accepted, visit Call2Recycle.
  • Types accepted:
    • Rechargeable
    • Single-use
    • E-bike
    • Cellphones
    • High-energy (purchase packaging and mail waste: Call2Recycle Store)

Electronic Waste

• Location: Best Buy now offers electronics, appliances and fitness equipment recycling in stores.
• Limit: You can recycle up to three items per household per day. 
• Haul-away options: Available for larger items in your home.

Dead Animals

• City services: Removal service is available for animals on City of Memphis public rights of way and City property.
  • Instructions: Place the deceased animal in a plastic bag on the curb (between the sidewalk and curb), not in the street or gutter.
  • Note: Collection is not provided on private property, including private developments, private streets, and apartment complexes.
• Unincorporated areas: To request a dead animal pick-up from unincorporated areas of Shelby County, call (901) 222-7705. 
  • Note: Shelby County will only pick up deceased animals from unincorporated areas.

Paint

• Disposal Tips:
  • Use or pass on: If possible, use or donate leftover paint.
  • Dry it up: Remove the lid and place the can in a well-ventilated area. Cans with 1/4 or less paint will dry in a few days. For larger amounts, mix with mulch or cat litter to expedite drying.
  • Dispose: Once dry, place the can in a separate bag and discard it with regular trash.

Non Hazardous Waste (not available for curbside)

• Monthly allowance: Up to one truckload of non-hazardous waste can be taken to the landfill each month.
• South Shelby Landfill: 5494 Malone Road, Memphis, TN 38118
  • Hours: Mon - Fri (7:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.), Sat (7:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.)
• North Shelby Landfill: 7111 Old Millington Road, Millington, TN 38053
  • Hours: Mon - Fri (6:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.)

For additional information on solid waste management in Memphis, visit Solid Waste Management.