Waste Disposal

Both the City of Chicago and private companies handle garbage removal. The City has more than 339 collection routes, and collects residential garbage -- produced by households in single-family homes and apartment buildings with four or fewer units -- on a weekly basis. All others, including residential high-rises, commercial and industrial properties and apartment buildings/flats with more than four units, must arrange for private garbage collection. (See the local telephone directory for potential service providers.)

For residential garbage customers, the City provides a free, lidded, 96-gallon plastic garbage cart. Missing or damaged carts are replaced or repaired by the Bureau of Sanitation; call 311. For information and concerns about sanitation in your area, contact your Ward Superintendent's Office, which coordinates local sanitation services.

Those who lease or purchase a commercial or industrial space must procure waste collection services from the private sector. As a tenant, ask your landlord if s/he provides waste removal service.  If so, find out if the costs are included in your rent, or charged separately. Private companies usually provide their customers with metal dumpsters to dispose of their trash.