(WASHINGTON, DC) – The Department of Public Works (DPW) announced today that its trash and recycling crews will begin residential trash and recycling collections at 6:00 am, beginning this week through Friday, September 5, 2025, to mitigate the impact of high temperatures and unhealthy air quality during the summer’s hottest months. In the event the heat index reaches a code red level, collections will start at 5:30 a.m.
Heat and humidity can dramatically change the conditions of garbage and can also cause bags to leak and spread all kinds of debris inside the bins. It can also impact the health of sanitation workers collection workers as they complete their routes.
“This early start helps crews avoid the hottest parts of the day and potential health issues related to extreme heat,” said Interim DPW Director Anthony Crispino. “We encourage residents to set their trash and recycling out for collection no later than 6:00 p.m. the evening before their collection day(s) so our crews can work safely and efficiently in the early morning hours.”
Under extreme conditions, the weather can also impact machinery, which may cause slight delays. When this occurs DPW’s goal is to complete 100% of any missed routes by the following morning.
For more information on DPW’s sanitation services and residential collection schedules,
visit https://dpw.dc.gov/service/find-your-trash-and-recycling-collection-schedule.
CONTACT:
Nancee Lyons (DPW) - (202) 368-7622; [email protected]