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 Waste Removal & Recycling FAQ

How do I have bulk trash removed from my property?
Information on bulk trash removal can be found on this page:
http://westminstermd.gov/trash/trash_main.html.
Do I have to call for a special pickup anymore?
No. Pickup schedule is every other week and you do not have to call in requests. To view the schedule, please check our calendar here: http://westminstermd.gov/mainstreet/mainstreet_calendar.html.
Why do I have to separate my household trash and recyclables?
In our contract, the trash haulers charge us tipping fees per ton. The recyclables are disposed of for free; therefore, the more we separate and recycle, the less money the City spends and the less landfill space is used.
Why must I separate my special pick up items?
Every item goes to a separate location; brush is taken to a storage area for the City to recycle into mulch; metal is taken to a recycling center; yard waste is taken to the landfill, which is then used for mulch; bulk trash is taken to the landfill for disposal. Each of these reduces the amount of trash for tipping fees.
Why do I have to use paper bags for my yard waste?
The County Landfill requires this and it makes it easier to mulch.
If I use a container for yard waste, why must it be no larger than a bushel size?
Larger containers become too heavy and cumbersome to dump.
Why can't the City pick up used oil, gasoline, & other hazardous materials from my house?
The City does not have the equipment or permits to haul hazard materials; however, you can dump used oil at the free drop of containers at 105 Railroad Ave (Street Department Shop). Also you can drop off used oil and anti-freeze at Northern Landfill.
If I live in an area that has common grounds, why can't I just put my trash there?
When no one take responsibility for an area, it quickly becomes a dumping zone and a haven for rodents and unsafe conditions. No one wants to have an area like this in their neighborhoods.
Why can't I put out my household trash or items for special pick up before noon prior to collection day?
Wind can blow trash around and animals can get into trash. The less time your trash sits curbside, the less likely it is to make a mess. Besides, we want our town to look presentable and not "trashy."
Why can't I just add my trash to my neighbors' pile?
In the event that an item is not able to be collected, the owner is responsible for it and this can result in a code violation.
What does it mean when I have a bad address?
The City classifies addresses by whether or not they are entitled to service. Those not entitled to service are apartments with four or more apartments, commercial buildings, or mixed residential and commercial. These are based on water meters and are generated by the Finance Department. A bad address is an address that is not entitled to trash pickup because of city code for the reasons mentioned here.
Why do I have to allow the latex paint that is still in pans to dry?
This keeps the latex paint from running out of the cans and spilling onto the streets as they get thrown onto the back of the trucks.
Who do I notify if trash is on the curb from an eviction?
Notify the Code Enforcement Office at 410-848-2261.
Why do we have to write on a trash can, "TAKE ME," in order for the City to throw it away?
If we had to use our own judgement when trying to decide if trash cans are no longer usable, we may not make the same decision as the owner - after all, one man's trash is another's treasure.