Township outlines new yard-waste scheduling and trash rules to lower solid-waste costs

Brian McCaffery and Frank Altamuro of Washington Township’s Department of Public Works told the council on Sept. 25 that the township will change how it handles yard waste and some bulk trash to reduce costs as it prepares for a competitive solid-waste contract.

Under the plan, effective Oct. 1, residents must schedule yard-waste pickup between November and April using the township website or by calling Suburban Disposal at 973-227-7020; pickups may be scheduled up to 48 hours before a household’s regular trash day. From May through October, yard-waste collection will occur automatically the day after regular trash pickup, McCaffery and Altamuro said.

Residents may also bring yard waste to the township recycling yard at 3 McClure Drive on Saturdays (except holidays) from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Leaf collection will continue to take place the day after a household’s scheduled trash day. The presenters reiterated that construction debris removal and full-house cleanouts are the homeowner’s responsibility; residents may use the Gloucester County Solid Waste Complex in Swedesboro at 503 Monroeville Road or call 856-478-6045 for details.

The presenters reviewed limits for bulk collection: up to three bulk items per week. Rolls of carpet not generated by a private contractor must be cut and bound to rolls no wider than 4 feet, not weigh more than 50 pounds, and are limited to six rolls per week. McCaffery and Altamuro framed the changes as part of a cost-containment strategy to keep the township’s future trash-removal bids competitive.

The council did not take formal action on the presentation; the changes were presented as instructions and service details residents must follow beginning Oct. 1.