Why Automated?
Automated collection is a faster, safer service that requires fewer workers and vehicles than the hand-loading of solid waste, green waste, and recyclables. Since 1992, this program has been an important part of Burbank's successful waste reduction efforts as required by California Assembly Bill 939.
Why do we need City-issued containers?
Automated vehicles can only pick up City-issued containers. All single-family residences and multi-family residences (four units or fewer) receive three sturdy but lightweight City containers: blue for recycling, green for green waste, and black for trash. The black container comes in 3 sizes: small, medium, and large. Your monthly rate is based on the size of your black refuse container. Blue and green containers come in medium and large at no additional cost.
Why these containers?
The containers are strong, well-balanced, and not easily turned over by wind or animals. Made, in part, of plastic recycled by Burbank residents, the containers will not corrode, deteriorate, or rust. Each container has an imprinted serial number, hinged, tight-fitting lids, and wheels for easy maneuverability.
How do I get City trash service?
When you sign up for electrical service with Burbank Water and Power (BWP), they will also sign you up for solid waste (trash/green waste/recycle) service. To sign up with BWP, please call (818) 238-3700.
When is my container picked up?
Collection service operates weekdays, Monday - Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., and all holidays. View the trash collection schedule map or download (PDF) it to find out when your collection day is.
What are the rules of container placement?
In order to reach out and grasp each container, the truck's hydraulic arm needs a minimum clearance of three feet from all objects such as parked cars, trees, mailboxes, fences, and lampposts.
Containers cannot be emptied without three feet of minimum clearance from objects.
Allow at least one foot of space between each container.
Container lids must be closed. Do not place items on top of the lid.
Containers cannot accommodate more than 200 pounds. Do not overload containers.
Face all containers in the same direction; the arrow on the lids pointing to the center of the street. The wheels and handle will be near the curb.
When setting out containers for collection, place them side by side in the street, or, if necessary, in front of your driveway. Per the Burbank Municipal Code, 4-2-108C, containers shall be placed in the gutter line in front of the premises on the day set for collection, but not more than twelve (12) hours prior to collection. All containers so placed for collection shall be removed from the street within twelve (12) hours after the contents thereof have been collected.
Can my containers be placed in the alley?
Unless otherwise notified, all containers will be picked up at the curb. Most Burbank alleys are not wide enough for the safe operation of automated trucks.
What happens if I violate the rules of container placement?
Your container will not be collected and tagged with a card indicating the violation. Reschedule your pick up once the violation has been correct by calling our Field Services Office at (818) 238-3800 to reschedule. A "Return Service" fee will be charged (per occurrence) to your BWP account.
Why aren't all my containers picked up at the same time?
All three containers will be picked up on the same day, your regular collection day, but not at the same time. They are all collected by the same type of vehicle. Recycling and green waste trucks may arrive before or after the regular refuse collection vehicle.
What if I need a different size or additional containers?
Contact our Field Services office at (818) 238-3800 if you need an additional container or a different size container for refuse, recycling, or green waste. A change fee per exchange visit will be applied. You can schedule multiple cart exchanges per visit to avoid another change fee.
What do I do if my containers aren't full?
Per Burbank Municipal Code 4-2-110: City Solid Waste Collection Frequency - garbage, recycling, and organic waste shall be collected at a minimum of once per week. Any containers set out that are half-full will now be serviced.
I have extra materials to dispose of. What can I do?
For most residents, the medium container is adequate. If you occasionally have more trash than will fit in your black trash container, you may schedule an extra pickup using your City-issued containers for a minimal fee. We also have temporary dumpsters available for rent for larger jobs.
What if my container is damaged?
Containers will be replaced free of charge providing the loss or damage is not the result of resident negligence. If the loss or damage is the resident's responsibility, there will be a replacement fee. Let us know by calling our Field Services office at (818) 238-3800.
Who should I report a stolen container to?
Stolen containers should be reported to the Burbank Police at (818) 238-3000.
I'm moving. What do I do with the containers?
If you move, please leave the containers at the residence.
Do I get containers if I live in an apartment of condominium with more than four units?
For apartments and condominiums with more than four units, a specifically designed recycling collection program is offered. Contact us at (818) 238-3800 for information about solid waste or green waste collection in multi-family buildings.
