Ask Abbey: What do I need to know about automated trash collection?

Ask Abbey: What do I need to know about automated trash collection?

WM (Waste Management) is converting garbage collection to an automated system and will deliver new trash carts to South Fayette homes in late April.

Abbey Scheerer is an administrative assistant with South Fayette Township.

When will I receive my new trash cart?

WM (Waste Management) will deliver one free garbage cart to every South Fayette home that receives curbside collection. Delivery tentatively starts April 22 and will take about a week to complete.

How do I dispose of old garbage cans?

Store-bought garbage cans cannot be used for automated collection. If you would like to dispose of an unused can, you can mark it “TRASH” and place it at the curb for WM to collect.

How do I change the size of my cart?

The default size of the garbage cart is 96 gallons (unless special arrangements have been made). Other available sizes are 64 gallons and 35 gallons. If you wish to swap out the size of your cart, you can contact WM at least 60 days AFTER initially delivery by calling 1-800-8664460 and saying “SERVICE CHANGE.”

This 96-gallon garbage cart holds approximately 7 to 8 tall kitchen bags.

How do I get additional carts?

For additional waste carts, you must contact WM and pay an annual fee. The charge is for the additional service and disposal, not for the cart itself.

• If you would like an additional garbage cart, you will need to pay a yearly fee to WM, which is $110 in 2024.

• For another recycling cart, the annual fee to WM is $93 in 2024. The additional cart will have the WM logo (not SF).

• To order additional carts, call WM at 1-800-866-4460 and say “SERVICE CHANGE.” The phone system will direct you to an agent to place your order and pay for your cart.

What if I am new to the township?

If you are moving into a newly built home, call WM at 1-800-866-4460 and request delivery of a garbage cart and a recycling cart. Every eligible residence receives one 64-gallon recycling cart and one 96-gallon garbage cart at no charge. The carts must stay with the home if you move.

What other changes are happening this year?

• WM only will take trash that fits inside the carts. WM will not collect anything that is placed next to or outside the cart.

• Bulk items are limited to 2 per month, per household. Bulk collection is the second full week of every month (WM starts each week with Monday; check the calendar on the back cover of South Fayette Connect). Bulk items include furniture, appliances, etc.—not extra loose trash bags.

• You may place glass in your recycling cart again.

For more information on automatic garbage collection and other changes to waste service, please visit southfayettepa.com/automated.