Nov 4, 2026 · 3 min read · Arlington
Arlington Curbside Trash, Recycling and Organics Guide
How does curbside trash and recycling pickup work in Arlington, VA?
Arlington County provides weekly curbside pickup of trash, recycling and organics for single-family homes, duplexes and some town houses. Set your carts out by 6 a.m. on your collection day, and no earlier than 5 p.m. the day before.
The Mike Webb Team (Mike and Claudia Webb, RE/MAX Allegiance) helps homeowners in Arlington, Northern Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, DC get their homes ready to sell and sold.
What does the county pick up?
The county's curbside recycling and trash page lists trash, recycling and organics. Recycling goes in the blue cart. The green cart can be used all year for food scraps along with yard waste.
How do I find my collection day?
Use the county's collection day lookup. Not every home gets county pickup, so if your address is a condo or town house, check the lookup or call the county.
When do I put the carts out?
Set carts out by 6 a.m. on your collection day, and no earlier than 5 p.m. the day before. Keep them closed so nothing spills, and bring them back from the curb within 24 hours after pickup.
What if the truck misses my house?
Report a missed pickup by 5 p.m. on the first business day after your trash day. You can report it online or call the county's Customer Contact Center at 703-228-5000, Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
What about big items, and what if I cannot move my carts?
Large items such as sofas and mattresses can go at the curb without a request. Items over 500 pounds need a private hauler at your cost. Electronics and bulk metal can be scheduled for a special pickup by phone. If you cannot move your carts to the curb, ask about backdoor collection, which has some restrictions.
What about the holidays?
The county's recycling and trash page links to a holiday service schedule, which shows how pickup days move around holidays. Look at it before Thanksgiving week, so your carts are out on the right day.
Why does this matter if I am selling or moving?
Cart day shows up in the everyday life of a home. If you are getting ready to sell, a tidy curb and empty carts help the first impression. For more, read Arlington Fall Leaf Collection 2026: How It Works and How to Declutter Before You Move.
FAQ
Who runs the service?
Arlington County's Department of Environmental Services runs it.
Do I have to call about a missed pickup?
You can report it online or call 703-228-5000 by 5 p.m. on the next business day.
Can I put food scraps in the green cart?
Yes. The county says you can use the green cart all year for food scraps with yard waste.
Call or text Claudia at 703-350-3884 or visit claudiawebb.com.
The Mike Webb Team, RE/MAX Allegiance. Arlington, Virginia. Equal Housing Opportunity.